First Aid for Hair Salons – 5 Emergencies to Avoid
Do beauty salons need to know about first aid? After Toni and Guy’s Cosmetology School in Orange County asked me to talk to their students about first aid, I realized there was a huge lack of information about things that can happen in salons.
So what are the main types of emergencies that can happen in beauty salons?
These are the top 5 dangers in the salon:
1.) Cuts
2.) Thermal Burns
3.) Electrical Burns
4.) Falls
5.) Chemical Spills/Inhalation
cuts – Stylists use sharp scissors and cuts are a possibility. Did the stylist remove too much around your ear and make you look like Van Gogh? Better pack some gauze in that first aid kit.
thermal burns – With straightening irons, curling irons and ovens in cosmetology schools, thermal burns are very likely. Cold water works best on burns – stay away from ointments, butter, etc.
electrical burns – Too many appliances plugged into power strips can cause fires. A curling iron, a straightening iron and a hair dryer? All of these draw a lot of amperage and can overload electrical wires. Remember to keep them away from water as well to avoid electrocution. Make sure your staff also know how to turn off the power at your circuit panel.
falls – The broom is your friend! Keeping your hair up will prevent falls, sprained ankles, and broken wrists. The last thing you need is an old lady slamming into the living room and the firemen showing up.
Chemical spills and inhalation – 99% of all rooms are well ventilated and it is important to keep chemicals separate. Bleach and ammonia are poisonous when mixed together. Each salon must have an MSDS (material safety and data sheets) that lists all chemicals used in the salon and their chemical properties in order to comply with OSHA.
There you go! Cuts, burns, falls, and chemical spills can wreak havoc on you, your staff, and your customers! Protect yourself as best as possible! Do you want all your staff to be on the same page? Many CPR and first aid companies offer CPR training on site and will train you in their salon. Your staff and customers will thank you!
