Education

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Why PPE is Essential

Working in a salon exposes you to chemicals, fumes, and other hazards that can impact your health over time. PPE protects you from direct exposure and reduces long-term risks.

Essential PPE for Salons

1. Nitrile Gloves
   • Resistant to chemicals like dyes, bleaches, and relaxers.
   • Recommended brands: Adenna, MedPride
2. Protective Masks
   • Use N95 or better-rated masks to filter airborne particles and fumes.
   • Recommended brands: 3M N95 Masks
3. Safety Goggles
   • Prevent splashes from entering your eyes.
   • Options: Uvex Goggles
4. Protective Aprons
   • Chemical-resistant aprons protect your skin and clothing.

Proper Use of PPE

• Ensure gloves are intact before use. Replace them if damaged.
• Wear masks securely, ensuring a snug fit.
• Clean reusable goggles and aprons after each use.
  

Disposal Tips

• Dispose of gloves and masks in sealed, labeled bags to avoid contamination.
• Follow your local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.

Product Safety Tips: Identifying Harmful Chemicals and Safer Alternatives

Harmful Chemicals to Watch Out For

1. Formaldehyde
   • Found in keratin treatments and some hair dyes
   • Risks: Carcinogenic, respiratory irritation
2. Ammonia
   • Found in permanent hair color
   • Risks: Eye and throat irritation
3. Parabens
   • Preservatives in hair care products
   • Risks: Hormonal disruption
4. PPD (p-Phenylenediamine)
   • Common in darker hair dyes
   • Risks: Allergic reactions, potential carcinogen

Safer Alternatives

• Ammonia-Free Hair Color:
  • L’Oreal INOA
  • Madison Reed
  • MATRIX
  • Oway’s Hcolor
  • Wella Koleston Perfect Innosense
• Formaldehyde-Free Treatments:
  • Keratin Complex
• Paraben-Free Products:
  • Aveda

Ventilation Solutions Guide: Breathe Easier in Your Salon

Why does ventilation matter? Proper ventilation matters because proper airflow minimizes exposure to fumes and airborne chemicals, creating a safer environment for you and your clients. If you need proper ventilation, consider some of the leading ventilation systems below.

Top 5 Ventilation Systems

1. AeraMax Professional AM3
   • Designed for commercial spaces with heavy chemical use Explore Options
2. Blueair Classic Series
   • HEPA filters for small salons
     Shop Blueair
3. EnviroKlenz Mobile Air System
   • Heavy-duty filtration for larger salons
     Purchase Here
4. IQAir HealthPro Plus
   • Advanced filtration for fumes and allergens
     Learn More
5. Winix HR900
   • Affordable option for independent stylists
     Shop Now

Emergency Preparedness Guide: Be Ready for the Unexpected

Common Emergencies in Salons

1. Chemical Spills
   • Containment: Use absorbent materials like spill kits.
   • Cleaning: Dispose of contaminated materials safely.
2. Severe Allergic Reactions
   • Symptoms: Swelling, breathing difficulty, rash
   • Action: Call 911 and administer antihistamines if available.
3. Accidental Eye Exposure
   • Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes
   • Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Incident Reporting

• OSHA Guidelines: Report Workplace Incidents
• State Health Boards: Directory of State Health Boards