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Evaluation of ergonomics, chemical exposures, and ventilation at four nail salons
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March 2019
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Description:"A state health department requested assistance from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) because of concerns about chemical exposures and musculoskeletal disorders among nail salon employees. The NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation responded by visiting four nail salons to learn more about chemical exposures, work-related health concerns, job task ergonomics, and ventilation systems. We found no personal air samples for ethyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, toluene, methyl methacrylate, or ethyl methacrylate above any exposure limits. Some personal formaldehyde concentrations were above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit. We found that employees worked in positions that pose risks for developing musculoskeletal disorders. Some employees reported musculoskeletal pain that improved away from work. None of the employees reported respiratory or skin symptoms; however, work practices and workplace conditions likely contributed to chemical exposures from nail polish, nail polish remover, acrylic polymers, and powders. We found varying levels of ventilation in the salons; none of the salons met ventilation guidelines. Additionally, none of the salons had local exhaust ventilation at acrylic nail or manicure stations. Our findings also included inappropriate chemical storage, inconsistent glove use, inconsistent training on chemical hazards, and incorrect respirator use. We recommended improving workplace equipment, ventilation, and chemical storage practices; providing training on ergonomic postures, chemical hazards, and health risks; and enhancing work practices and personal protective equipment." - NIOSHTIC-2
NIOSHTIC no. 20055183
Recommended citation: NIOSH [2019]. Evaluation of ergonomics, chemical exposures, and ventilation at four nail salons. By Broadwater K, Chiu S. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Health Hazard Evaluation Report 2015-0139-3338, https://www .cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2015-0139-3338.pdf.
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