5. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

WHAT IS PPE ?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to clothing and gear worn to protect individuals from exposure to potentially harmful substances or environments. In a salon, PPE is essential to protect both hairdressers and clients from injuries, harmful pathogens, chemical exposure, and contamination.

By using PPE properly, hairdressers reduce the risk of cross-contamination, infection, and injury during services. Common PPE in salons includes gloves, face masks, and aprons, each serving a specific purpose.

WHY PPE IS IMPORTANT IN A SALON ?

Protection from chemical exposure : Hairdressers use many chemicals in hair coloring, perming, and straightening treatments. PPE protects against skin burns, eye irritation, and inhalation of toxic fumes.
Infection control : PPE helps reduce the spread of infectious agents, particularly when handling tools, cleaning surfaces, or providing close-contact services.
Protecting against injury : PPE, such as gloves and aprons, can also protect against cuts, scratches, or burns from hot tools, razors, and scissors.

OSHA AND CDC GUIDELINES

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets forth regulations for workplace safety, including specific recommendations for PPE use in salons. These guidelines ensure that salons provide a safe environment for employees and clients.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provide guidance on infection control, emphasizing the importance of PPE in preventing the spread of pathogens in healthcare and service environments, including salons.

PPE FOR HAIRDRESSERS

a. Gloves

Gloves are one of the most commonly used forms of PPE in the salon and are essential for protecting hands from chemicals, hair dyes, or potential contaminants such as blood. They also reduce the risk of spreading germs and pathogens during client services.

When to use gloves :

Chemical services : Applying hair dyes, bleach, perms, or relaxers.
Cleaning and disinfecting : Handling dirty tools, cleaning surfaces, or dealing with waste.
Handling blood or body fluids : Performing services that may involve blood, or when dealing with tools that come into contact with bodily fluids (e.g., razors or combs used on irritated skin).
Change gloves between clients and avoid reusing disposable gloves.

Types of gloves :

Latex : Provides a snug fit but can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Nitrile : A more durable, latex-free alternative that provides excellent protection against chemicals and punctures.
Vinyl : A less expensive option for non-chemical services but less durable than nitrile gloves.

b. Face masks

Face masks protect hairdressers and clients from inhaling fumes, dust, and other airborne contaminants that may be present during chemical treatments, cutting, or styling.

When to wear masks :

When using chemicals (e.g., hair coloring or perming) as they shield against harmful chemical fumes and protect against respiratory irritations.
When using aerosols (e.g., hairsprays, dry shampoo, or disinfectant sprays).
When providing services to clients with respiratory issues such as colds, flu, or COVID-19, to prevent droplet transmission.
When working in a poorly ventilated space.

Types of masks :

Surgical masks : Disposable masks that cover the nose and mouth, typically used for protecting against spray, dust, or airborne allergens.
N95 respirators : A higher level of protection, used in environments where exposure to fine par- ticles, chemicals, or infectious agents is more likely.
Cloth masks : Suitable for general client interactions, particularly during flu seasons or when there’s a concern about airborne viruses.

c. Aprons/gowns

Protective aprons are essential for protecting the hairdresser’s clothing and skin from chemicals, hair products, and staining agents.

When to use aprons/gowns :

During hair coloring, bleaching, or other chemical treatments.
When cutting or trimming hair, as hair clippings can be messy and may transfer dirt or germs to clothing.
When shampooing or performing wet services on clients.

Types of aprons/gowns :

Disposable aprons : For single-use, especially during chemical applications.
Reusable aprons/gowns : Made of waterproof or chemical-resistant materials.

d. Eye protection

Eye protection, such as goggles or face shields, is important when working with chemicals or when performing tasks where there is a risk of splashes (e.g., mixing hair dye or perm solution).

When to wear eye protection :

During chemical applications or when mixing products that could splatter.
When working with hot tools, like curling irons or straighteners, to avoid burns or accidental splashes.
When handling sharp tools.

e. Protective footwear

Slip-resistant shoes are important to prevent slips and falls, especially when floors are wet or covered in hair. Footwear that covers the feet can also protect against burns or injuries from tools.

When to use protective footwear :

Footwear should be worn at all times to protect from injuries caused by slipping or dropped tools, as well as from exposure to chemicals spills.
When cutting hair, to prevent from hair splinters. Freshly cut hair, which is often very sharp, can easily penetrate the skin and lead to complications.

HOW TO PROPERLY USE PPE

To ensure that PPE is effective in preventing exposure to harmful agents, it must be used properly. Using PPE incorrectly can compromise safety and increase the risk of contamination or injury.

Step-by-step instructions for PPE use :

WEARING GLOVES

1- Wash and dry hands before wearing gloves.

2- Choose the appropriate size and type of glove.

3- Put gloves on by carefully pulling them over your hands and wrists without touching the outside.

4- Ensure that gloves fit snugly and cover the wrist completely.

WEARING A MASK

1- Place the mask over your nose and mouth, ensuring that it fits securely around the edges to prevent air gaps.

2- The mask should cover both the nose and mouth entirely.

3- Do not touch the mask while wearing it to avoid contamination.

WEARING APRONS/GOWNS

1- Place the apron over your clothing and fasten it securely around the neck and waist.

2- Ensure that the gown covers your clothing completely, especially when handling chemicals.

WEARING EYE PROTECTION

1- Position goggles or a face shield over the eyes and secure them with the straps.

2- Ensure that the eye protection does not obstruct vision or create discomfort.

REMOVING PPE

1- Always remove gloves first to avoid touching contaminated surfaces.

2- Follow the sequence: gloves, mask, apron, goggles/face shield.

3- Dispose of disposable PPE immediately in a designated waste bin.

4- Wash hands thoroughly after removing all PPE.

SAFE PRACTICE :

Remove PPE properly : Always remove gloves and other PPE without touching the outer surface to avoid contamination. Use a safe disposal method, such as a biohazard bag for contaminated items.
Discard disposable gloves : Always discard disposable gloves after each use.
Proper cleaning of reusable PPE : Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning and saniti- zing reusable PPE.
Replace PPE : After each client or whenever it becomes contaminated, replace PPE before starting another task.

GOOD TO KNOW

Hygiene and clean uniforms: In addition to PPE, wearing a clean uniform and maintaining personal cleanliness is an essential part of a hygienic salon environment. Ensure your uniform is washed regularly and avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that can trap dirt or bacteria.

KEY REMINDERS

Avoid touching your face while wearing gloves. Wash hands immediately after removing any PPE.

Table des matières