The Nail School
COSHH the control of substances hazardous to health regulations (2002)
Where designed to make employers consider substances used in the workplace and to assess the possible risks to health. Many substances that seem quite harmless can prove to be hazardous if used and stored incorrectly. Hazardous substances are anything that can harm your health.
To the nail technician some hazards are breathing in monomer fumes and dust from filing etc
Hazardous substances are identified by international symbols (shown right)
They can enter the body via: Eyes : Skin : Nose (inhalation) : Mouth (ingestion)
Every beauty supplier is legally required to make guidelines available on how materials should be used and stored (manufactuers instructions). These are called safety data sheets (MSDSs) These can be requested from a supplier.
Also what to do in case they enter the body.
Any hazardous substances must be formally recorded in writing. Safety precaution procedures should then be
Activity
1. Contact the manufacturer for COSHH or MSDS sheets
2. Draw up a chart listing all chemicals you are working with.
3. List all safety equipment required and precautions which should be taken.
4. List the requirements for disposal of all chemicals you are working with.
5. Set and record acceptable standards of safety in your working enviroment.
6. Ensure you or your staff are trained to the required levels.
7. Records all accidents and their details.
8. Review procedures on a regular basis.
implemented and training given to employees.
If you are self employed and just work on your own you should still take COSHH very seriously not only for yourself but also for your clients safety.
