Nail technician

[3] Courses will more than likely cover anatomy and physiology of the nails, hands, arms, feet and legs, contraindications that may arise, identifying diseases and disorders, proper sanitation and sterilizing techniques, how to perform nail services safely, gel polish application, liquid and powder enhancements and hard gel enhancements.

[6] In the United States there are approximately 400,000 nail technicians registered and occupational exposures to chemical hazards is recognized as a concern in this profession.

[7] These nail salons use a wide variety of supplies that have high levels of acrylates, parabens, phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

[10] Consistent exposure to toluene can cause severe damage to the central nervous system, with symptoms like motor dysfunction and limb paralysis.

With a majority of these workers being young women of color it is additionally important that recognition of the severity of the damage these chemical exposures cause to avoid further marginalization of this community.

[7] The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has provided guidelines on ways to mitigate the impact of these harsh chemical exposures.

[16] Lastly, placing arms at the end of the table and use a towel or any form of padding to soften the edge can minimize localized pressure point during repetitive work.