Evaluating Occupational Workforce and Practices in New York Metropolitan Nail Salons

Abstract

This study investigated workforce characteristics, work practices, protective measures, and health symptoms among nail salon workers in New York and New Jersey following the implementation of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) regulations in New York. An online survey conducted from 2022 to 2023 targeted registered nail salons and manicurists in both states (N = 146). The majority of respondents were Asian, primarily Korean (52.1%) and Chinese (26%). In New York, 79% of salons had a mechanical ventilation system, including LEV, while in New Jersey, where no ventilation regulation exists, only 52% of nail salons had mechanical ventilation systems. A substantial proportion of manicurists reported health-related concerns (40.5%) and symptoms related to chemical exposure (67.6%). The study emphasizes the need for continuous and improved illness prevention strategies, including the use of safer products, comprehensive health and safety training, and effective ventilation practices, to better protect nail salon workers.