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609 Health Hazards in Nail Salons
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Reducing Ergonomic Hazards

Use the following OSHA-recommended safe work practices to reduce musculoskeletal hazards while working in the nail salon.

Worker with mask and gloves sitting in chair working on customers hand.
Good light and work posture helps prevent eye, back, and neck strain.
  • Use an adjustable chair that gives proper back support and can be raised and lowered. Position the body so that feet stay flat on the floor and use a footrest if needed.
  • Make sure that there is enough space between the back of the knees and the front edge of the seat to help ensure proper blood flow to the legs.
  • Adjust the lighting to see without bending over a work table.
  • Raise and position the client's hand or foot to avoid bending over.
  • Avoid resting hands, wrists, forearms, and elbows against hard and/or sharp edges of work tables.
  • Put a towel or foam pad on the work table edge for a softer surface for the arms.
  • Put soft pads on tool handles to make them larger and easier to hold.
  • Take frequent breaks if possible. Changing positions and doing a different task is also helpful.
  • Pace the work. When working too fast, the body can become tense, which could cause muscle pain.
  • Do gentle stretching exercises in between sessions with clients to relax and give muscles and joints a chance to move.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-2. Which of the following is a safe work practice that can reduce musculoskeletal injuries?