Salon Workers: 3 Common Work-Related Beauty Salon Injuries And How To Avoid Them

Most people don't think of a salon as a scary, dangerous place. Instead, it's a serene oasis where one goes to get pampered and fussed over. If you're a beautician or nail tech, you know a salon can be anything but that. From dangerous chemicals to contagious bacterial infections, the salon poses many dangers. While it's your job as a stylist to make sure your clients stay safe, you also have to take the time to care of yourself. Each year, numerous workers' compensation claims are filed by beauticians and other salon workers. Here are the most common injuries sustained in a salon and how to avoid them. 

Slip and Fall Injuries

Some of the most common injuries sustained by salon workers are those caused by slips and falls. Wet hair clippings, hair color, water and slippery hair products can all be found on the salon floor at any given time, and all of these present slip hazards. Common salon injuries related to falls include, sprains, strains, twisted ankles, broken bones and spinal compression fractures. To avoid a fall at work, be sure to wear non-slip shoes at all times. Also, sweep up hair immediately after finishing a cut and mop up any spills as soon as you see them. 

Chemical and Burn Injuries

Perm chemicals, relaxers and hair color along with nail chemicals can cause severe burns if they are left on the skin for too long. Chemicals can also cause injury if they come into contact with your eyes or other sensitive membranes, such as your nose or throat. To avoid chemical injuries, always mix chemicals with the bowl/bottle held away from your body. Wear gloves at all times while working with chemicals. If necessary, wear a mask to protect yourself from strong fumes and airborne particles. 

Sprain and Strain Injuries

Repetitive motion injuries are very common among beauticians and salon workers. To avoid strain and sprain injuries of the wrists, shoulders, fingers and elbows, keep your client at the proper height. Do not stretch or hunch over to perform services. Stretch and perform hand and arm exercises frequently throughout the day. This will help you keep your hands nimble and your fingers loose. 

As hard as you try, you may still become injured at work. If you do, file a claim and think about hiring a workers compensation attorney like those at the Franco Law Firm. An attorney who is knowledgeable about your type of work-related injury can advise you as to what type and how much compensation you're eligible to receive.