How to Remove Airborne Chemicals in a Nail Salon

Many nail salons use chemicals that emit harmful vapors.

Nail salons offer a variety of services from manicures to pedicures and even unwanted hair waxing. The chemicals used to provide these services can cause unsavory smells and are also potentially harmful to your body. Operators of nail salons are required to minimize exposure to these vapors as much as possible. By following a few safety guidelines, vapors can be controlled and customers protected from environmentally, unfriendly chemical products.

Instructions

1. Install adequate ventilation in your nail salon. Ventilation systems allow for harmful vapors to be removed from the room. Local exhaust systems are ideal for nail salons as they capture vapors at their source, according to the Nail Manufacturers Council.

2. Install a carbon filtration system or air purifier in your salon. Carbon attracts chemical vapors and gases that are potentially harmful. HEPA filters do not suffice in nail salons because they are designed to attract airborne particles, leaving vapors to run amok.

3. Avoid using fans to dispel vapors. Fans only circulate the vapors throughout the room, doing nothing to remove them. If you use fans to help in the nail drying process, try installing a UV light nail dryer instead.

4. Close the lids of all chemical products, tightly. Do not leave any chemical open as this allows more vapor to enter the air around you. Ensure all chemicals are in properly marked containers and are kept away from direct sunlight and high heat.

5. Remove garbage several times per day. Cloths, towels and cotton balls that are saturated in chemicals will emit vapors. By disposing of them frequently, you can minimize airborne vapors. Dispose of these items according to your MSDS rules and regulations.

References

• Nail Manufacturers Council: Guidelines for Controlling and Minimizing Inhalation Exposure to Nail Products
• ASTRA: Managing Nail Salon Air---5 Answers About How To Improve Nail Salon Air Qualtiy