With more customers focusing on personal appearance, hygiene, and wellness, the salon industry is continuing to thrive. Thanks to a growing demand for more than just haircuts and manicures in recent years, there are now more opportunities for salons to expand, personalize, and update their offerings.
But on top of seeking additional training to better adapt to trends, hairdressers, nail technicians, and other professionals in the salon industry must also take care of their well-being. Staying safe and in shape allows them to deliver exceptional customer service and continue driving growth both for their careers and overall business. Below, we take a look at some essential health and safety tips for salon workers.
1. Wear personal protective equipment
No matter how satisfying it is to help clients achieve the look they want, there’s no denying that it exposes you to physical and chemical hazards. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in the salon should be prioritized, starting with gloves that prevent skin damage without compromising dexterity.
Although vinyl and latex gloves are the most popular options for salons, nitrile gloves from manufacturers like Ansell and United Glove are more comfortable and durable since they are form-fitting and have high puncture resistance. Adequate PPE also includes safety glasses/goggles to keep things out of your eyes and a face mask to reduce the risk of inhaling toxic fumes.
2. Maintain good eyesight
Nail & hair care can be visually demanding jobs, requiring near-perfect vision to work with clients at close range. So, maintaining good eyesight is possible by using protective eyewear not only at work but also when you’re off the job.
When spending time outside, wear sunglasses that help shield your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You can order online for superior-quality shades from top brands like Oakley and Ray-Ban, and select from classic styles like rectangular, aviators, or oversized. Also, be sure to schedule a regular eye checkup at least once a year to identify any refractive errors or vision problems that require immediate treatment. If you need corrective lenses, ensure that your prescription is updated so that you can work at your best.
3. Stretch and exercise regularly
The nature of salon services can also be physically taxing, from working with numerous clients to remaining in the same position for prolonged periods. To add, research published in the Journal of Occupational Health has observed that hairdressers are particularly at risk for musculoskeletal problems like neck, back, and shoulder pain due to repetitive movements, improper posture, and long hours at work.
As such, salon workers must make a habit of stretching and exercising in the morning, during breaks, and after clocking out. Even simple breathwork, upper body stretches, and hand and finger rotations can help prevent or relieve pain.
4. Pay attention to ergonomics
Ergonomics can also help reduce the risk of work-related stress and musculoskeletal disorders. This can begin with proper techniques in using scissors, nail cutters, and other workplace tools so as not to strain the hand, wrist, and fingers.
Work-appropriate footwear can also help balance comfort and safety with the Dansko clogs being the ideal option for salon workers due to their breathable design and slip-resistant soles. The professional clogs typically come in leather, but there’s a new translucent plastic design for those who want to add a bit of color and fun to their work attire.
Of course, the equipment used and the overall design and layout of the salon can enhance the ergonomics and make day-to-day operations smoother and easier. In this light, ShearShare works with salon owners and professionals to optimize their establishments for better workplace health and safety and customer service. Explore the website to find out more.
