Health & Safety

Health & Safety

All of the following information provides health and safety guidance for all employed, self-employed and employers, thus minimising the risk of any occupational issues. Presenting yourself and your business as a clean, tidy, hygienic and safe will endorse professional image. As a therapist you are representing the beauty industry therefore guidelines should be followed:

  • Clean salon uniform at all times
  • Good personal hygiene – bath/showered, deodorant, clean teeth
  • No unkempt hair eg: hanging in your face
  • Clean, tidy manicured nails
  • No jewellery except studded earrings and wedding rings
  • All cuts MUST be covered with a waterproof dressing

The spray tanning equipment used has variations, however there are two main systems;

Manual Airbrush and Spraying Systems HVLP Spray Systems. Other variations may exist.

DHA is the active ingredient in the tanning product, which reacts with the skins top layer, where you will find the amino acids to produce browning of the skin.

Manual Airbrush Systems – The equipment includes a small compressor unit, flexi hose, spray tan gun and pot for the solution. The compressor generates pulses of air pressure which in turn is used to spray the tanning solution via the gun in the form of a fine mist.

HVLP Spray Systems – The HVLP system stands for High Volume Low Pressure and is a no pressure system. This system blows. As with the airbrush system the full body tan application takes approximately 10-20 minutes when applied by a trained therapist. The client will stand in a pop up tent where the solution will be applied for an all over tan.

Hazards

When using the spray tan systems there are hazards which need to be recognised.

Electric Shocks – The compressor and HVLP units run on 240v electricity therefore an annual pat test is suggested. Also if any wires become lose refrain from using the product until it has been checked by a registered electrician.

Air Compressor – The manual airbrush system uses a compressor and falsl under the ‘Pressure Safety Regulations 2000’. Loud noise and or explosion can be associated with these units too.

Slips & Falls – The liquid solution from the spray tan gun is a fine mist so overspray can settle on the floor. Using a tent or anti slip mats alongside regular cleaning will minimise this form of accident.

Upper Limb Disorder – This is particularly apparent with the manual airbrush system. This requires repetitive arm, hand and finger moment. It also may require the therapist to be in awkward positions. To minimise this, allow adequate working space.

Protective Equipment – When using protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, make sure they are replenished as required. This is more apparent with the manual airbrush system.

Ventilation – When using the spray tanning system ventilation is important to reduce exposure of the spray particles to both clients and therapists. To ensure maximum efficiency of your equipment ensure that all filters and extractors are maintained on a regular basis.

Inhalation of spray particles is more likely with the manual systems due to the fine mist generated. For manual systems owners, ensuring specific site assessments are carried out will advise you if there is sufficient ventilation.

Chemicals – Mobile therapists and salons should always assess the safety of the product used which includes identifying any ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems. For example, some products contain nuts which may cause issues for clients with nut allergies. Also asthma suffers are advised by the manufacturers to seek advice from their GP prior to using some products.

Automated booths particularly can cause ingestion of tanning solution which can result in a client suffering from nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or gastric irritation.

Having a COSHH appraisal will assess and identify these potential risks. Also obtaining Material Safety Data sheets from suppliers for the tanning products is advantageous.

All clients should be provided with appropriate chemical safety advice prior to receiving any treatments.

Aftercare – Aftercare advice should be provided for all clients after any spray tanning treatment. The advice should include details of maintaining and precautions required once they have used the spray tanning system.

Consent – The age of consent is 18 years old and over. Any minor under this age must have a parent/guardian present whom must sign a consent form which needs to be kept on file. Girl must wear a bathing suit, bikini or underwear and boys must wear short, swimming trunks or underwear. If a signature is not obtained then you will be breaking the law.

Legislative Requirements

  • The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000
  • The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health 2002
  • The Work Place Health Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992
  • The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health 2002 is the law that requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health. Within the beauty industry you will work with and sell products containing chemicals which may be potentially dangerous if not used or stored for their proper use. Improper use may impair the products and shorten the shelf life, therefore endanger your client. These substances can enter the body through the eyes, skin, mouth or nose so it is paramount that all employers, self-employed and employees assess the risks and take any necessary action to minimise or control the risk.

This can be achieved by;

  • following manufacturers guidelines
  • Storing products in a ventilated, cool, dark and dry storage place
  • Make sure all containers are properly secured
  • Keep ALL product away from sunlight, heat or any source of ignition
  • Keep all chemicals in the original containers and do not remove the labels
  • Do not mix chemicals as they may not be compatible causing ‘incomplete polymerisation, harmful vapours or explosion.
  • Use protective clothing if required
  • Be clear of the first aid procedures in case of spillages or ingestion
  • Dispose of products in the correct manner. Always refer to manufacturers guidelines.
  • Do not burn waste
  • Never pour down sinks, drains or toilets

The Data Protection Act 1998 defines UK law on the processing of data on people. It is the main piece of legislation that governs the protection of personal data in the UK. When a client completes any documentation for example: consultation, medical or enrolment forms, this information must only be used by you for the purpose it was intended.  It is an offence for Other Parties to obtain this personal data without the clients’ authorisation.

Your clients have the right to access this information held by therapists or salon. All information held on file should be kept up to date. All client personal information should be kept in a locked cabinet so not to be access by third parties.

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