Salon Safety

Handling the Unexpected

SURPRISES HAPPEN. HERE'S WHAT TO DO.

Cleaning Up Spills

Taking care to avoid spills of salon products reduces waste and improves safety. Salon products may discolor some materials, irritate the skin and eyes, or result in a slippery floor condition. If spills do occur, follow the practices listed below:

  • Wear impermeable gloves and use a wet sponge to wipe up products containing ammonia, monoethanolamine, or hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to rinse the sponge in the sink and flush with water.
  • If more than a cupful of powder lightener is spilled, scoop up as much of the powder as possible and deposit it in a clean and dry container, close the container and put it in the trash.
  • Never pour large amounts of powdered lighteners down the sink drain; the product may clog the drain and react when exposed to water.

Accidents

Most salons are safe places for customers and salon professionals. Accidents can happen, however, and it is important to be prepared.

Skin

Salon products not meant for skin contact (e.g. off-the-scalp lighteners) should be rinsed off with water if they come in contact with the skin. If irritation develops and persists, seek medical attention. To be on the safe side, articles of clothing with wet spots caused by salon products should be changed immediately and not worn again until they have been laundered.

Eyes

If a salon product gets in someone's eyes, remove contacts if present, flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, and seek medical attention.

Breathing

If someone develops a respiratory problem (e.g. shortness of breath) inside the salon, move the person to fresh air, and seek medical attention immediately.

Fire

Regularly tested fire extinguishers should be present in all salons, and salon personnel should know how to use them. Your local fire or building inspection department can supply information on the type and number of fire extinguishers needed in your salon. Also, if your salon is equipped with an emergency sprinkler system, remember to leave 18 inches of open space around ceiling-mounted spray heads.