Assessing Acute Symptoms Related to Occupational Exposures Among Nail Salon Technicians.

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional field study evaluated potential associations between acute symptoms among nail technicians and exposure of chemical hazards in New Jersey salons.

METHODS

In 2016, an in-person safety and health survey was conducted. Data were gathered on symptoms, demographics, work history, tobacco use, area and/or task ventilation, use of personal protective equipment, and safety training. Workplace hazards were identified by observational survey during site visit walk-throughs.

RESULTS

Of the 68 respondents from 40 participating salons whose owners agreed to participate (35% salon-level participation), most were Asian females with a self-reported history of work-associated eye, nose, throat, and skin symptoms. Few workers used personal protective equipment. Most workers had not received training in their primary language.

CONCLUSIONS

Nail salon workers need comprehensive chemical use training. More research is needed to determine extent of exposure.