There are many health risks associated with the beauty industry due to the chemicals found in the products. We are all affected by these chemicals every time we go to the beauty salon. Many of the products found in these salons are classified as hazardous and extreme caution should be taken into consideration when using these products. They’re made for professional use only; therefore, users must be trained and certified to be handling these products. A proper ventilation system needs to be in place at all salons for the safety of everyone entering the salon and / or exposed to the hazardous chemicals in the products.

Some common side effects of some of the products include (but not limited to) dermatitis, asthma, and eye and throat irritation. Hazardous chemicals can enter the body by swallowing, inhaling, and through the skin. The severity of reactions depends on the length and frequency of exposure to these products, the toxicity of the substance, and the route of entry into the body.

Examples of salon products containing hazardous substances:

Hair dyes, bleaches, permanent wave solutions, shampoos, hair styling agents, brow and lash tints, chemical peels, peroxides, wax solvents, disinfectants, cleaning products, keratin treatments, nail enamels and hardeners, nail polish removers and solvents, nail tips and wraps, acrylic and gel nail systems.

Examples of Hazardous Chemicals:

Formaldehyde: Also known as methanal, methyl aldehyde or methylene oxide, causes neurotoxicity and allergic reactions. Irritations to the eyes, nose, throat, skin, and respiratory tracks are common symptoms.

Based on the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) standards, the permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 0.75 parts per million (ppm).
Based on National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) standards, the recommended exposure limit (REL) is 0.016 ppm

Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) & Ethyl Methacrylate (EMA): Irritates the eyes, mucous membrane, and respiratory tract and is highly toxic.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for MMA is 100 ppm and not yet determined for EMA.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for MMA is 100 ppm and not yet determined for EMA.

Dibutyle Phthalate: Commonly found in synthetic fragrances and some plastics. It will cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and lungs and irritation to the eyes, stomach and upper respiratory system.

 Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for dibutyle phthalates is 5 mg / m³.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for dibutyle phthalates is 5 mg / m³.

Solvents (Acetone, Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Xylene, and Toluene): Causes headaches, nausea, dizziness, and irritability.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for acetone is 1,000 ppm, 200 ppm for methyle ethyl ketone and toluene, and 100 ppm for xylene.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for acetone is 250 ppm, 200 ppm for methyle ethyl ketone, and 100 ppm for toluene and xylene.

Diethanolamine (DEA) and Triethylamine (TEA): Used as foaming agents, synthetic emulsifiers. They are HIGHLY acidic and cause allergic reactions, eye irritation and dryness of hair and skin. DEA and TEA are ammonia compounds, which are potent carcinogens, can also strip away vital amino acids.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for DEA is not determined and TEA is 25 ppm.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for DEA is 3 ppm and TEA is 10 ppm.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate / Sodium Laureth Sulfate: Found in the majority of shampoos, to create lather and bubbles. These sulfates are generally derived from petroleum which causes eye and scalp irritation and tangled hair.

The PEL & REL has not yet been determined by the OSHA and NIOSH standards.

Paraben (methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl): Found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, spray tanning solutioins, makeup and toothpaste to prolong their shelf life. Paraben are estrogenic which are disruptive of normal hormone function; exposure has been linked to breast cancer and cause skin and allergic reactions.

The PEL & REL has not yet been determined by the OSHA and NIOSH standards.

Naphtha: Also known as coal tar are used in synthetic colors and dyes to make products pretty. However, they heavy metal salts that deposit toxins onto the skin which causes irritation and are carcinogenic. Irritations to the eyes, skin, and nose, dizziness, drowsiness, and dermatitis are common symptoms.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for naphtha is 100 ppm.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for naphtha is 100 ppm.

Propylene Glycol: Also known as propylene glycol dinitrate is a synthetic petrochemical used as an emulsifying base in lotions and creams (to make the skin look smooth). Propylene Glycol actually ages the skin at a faster rate, also leads to poor, saggy skin through absorption. It is a MAJOR ingredient in brake and hydraulic fluids which causes an allergic reaction and damages to the kidneys and liver.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for propylene gylcol is not determined.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for propylene gylcol is 0.05 ppm.

Mineral Oil: Also known as oil mist is petroleum based oil which enlarges and clogs the skins pores, can also cause acne, poor/saggy skin. Mineral oil decreases the skin cell’s ability to exchange nutrients and waste products. Irritations to the eyes, skin and respiratory system are common symptoms.

Based on OSHA standards, the PEL for mineral oil is 5 mg / m³.
Based on NIOSH standards, the REL for mineral oil is 5 mg / m³.

It is extremely important to have a proper ventilation system in place. Some salons may have outdated systems or none at all. Natural ventilation generally does not provide sufficient air flow to be suitable for controlling airborne contaminants. Having proper ventilation system will provide a continuous supply of fresh outside air, maintain the temperature and relative humidity level, reduce explosion hazards, and reduce or  remove airborne contaminants. There are two types of ventilation systems, dilution ventilation and local exhaust, are explained below.

Dilution ventilation system effectively is effective for small dispersed contaminant sources. It dilutes contaminated air by blowing in clean air and exhausting some dirty air. It doesn’t completely remove contaminants and is not used for highly toxic chemicals.

Local exhaust ventilation system removes airborne contaminants at the source before they can be breathed in.  It captures contaminate emissions at or very near the source and exhausts them outside.

Although having proper ventilation system is very important for the health and safety of people entering or exposed to the salon, it can be extremely expensive to have the system on 24 / 7. A simple solution to this would be to install fixed gas detectors in rooms where the products are being stored and / or used. Therefore, when the level of gas emitted from the product is at a pre-set level, the ventilation system will automatically turn on to dilute or exhaust the air.

For suggestions on fixed or portable gas detectors, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

Written by: Ambur Vilac & Teresa Kouch

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REFERENCES:
“Guide for the hairdressing, nail and beauty industry.” Queensland Government. 14 June 2011. Web. 27 Sep 2011. <http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/workplace/subjects/hairdressing/guide/index.htm>.

“Hairdressing, Nail and Beauty Safety.” Unionsafe. 15 Nov 2005. Web. 21 Sep 2011. <http://unionsafe.labor.net.au/hazards/106014706721942.html>.

“Harmful Chemicals in Hair Products.” Green Hair Products.com. 1997-2008. Web. 21 Sep 2011. <http://www.green-hair-products.com/harmful_chemicals_in_hair_products.htm>.

“Industrial Ventilation.” Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. 10 Jan 2008. Web. 27 Sep 2011. <http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/prevention/ventilation/introduction.html>.

“NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 10 Aug 2010. Web. 27 Sep 2011. <http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/default.html>.

“Occupational Health Hazards in Nail Salons.” Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc. 30 Dec 2005. Web. 27 Sep 2001. <http://www.ohcow.on.ca/resources/handbooks/nail_salon/nail_salons.pdf>.

“Oregon OSHA Fact Sheet: Safety and Health Hazards in Nail Salons.” Oregon OSHA. 1 Feb 2008. Web. 27 Sep 2011. <http://www.orosha.org/pdf/pubs/fact_sheets/fs28.pdf>.

Carbon dioxide, also known as CO₂, is a very well known gas type but not everyone knows how deadly it is. Most people know it as a gas that humans exhale but commercially, it is manufactured and shipped as a liquefied compressed gas or is used as dry ice in its solid form.

A common use of CO₂ gas is in soda fountain machines to carbonate soft drinks by pressurizing the CO₂ gas into the liquid syrup. Without the carbonation or fizziness, it is no different than flavored syrup. Worldwide, fountain soft drinks are served in restaurants, sports arenas, fast food chains, cafeterias, public events, etc. Accidental incidences of CO₂ leak from the compressed cylinders storing CO₂ gas are common but preventable.

Some examples of accidental cases that have been reported by the media include, but not limited to:

• The Mi Ranchito restaurant in Lenexa, Kansas in August 2009 had caused two dozen people to be come ill due to back flow problems with the soda machine. The carbonated water was coming into contact with copper lines, poisoning customers.
• A McDonald’s restaurant in Phoenix, Arizona in June 2011 had to evacuate everyone in the restaurant because of a leaking soda machine in the building’s basement. A pregnant employee ended up collapsing due to the fumes. Other staff members experienced lightheadedness and dizziness. Fortunately, no one was seriously ill and was able to get immediate medical attention.
• A fast food restaurant in Yorkshire in the United Kingdom in June 2011 had to evacuate everyone due to a leaky CO₂ cylinder. Emergency service people had to wear breathing apparatuses in order to enter the restaurant to disconnect the cylinder. No one was injured in this case.
• A McDonald’s restaurant in Savannah, Georgia in September 2011 had sickened ten people, including the death of a woman found unconscious in a restroom. This was due to a leaky gas line between the walls caused the gas to build up a week ago.

All restaurants mentioned had their licenses suspended but after fixing the problem, were allowed to re-open again. No criminal charges were given to any of the restaurants as it’s considered an accident. By definition from dictionary.com, an accident is “an undesirable or unfortunate happening that occurs unintentionally and usually results in harm, injury, damage, or loss.” It’s true that the situation is “undesirable” and “unfortunate” but can be prevented if proper measures were taken by the owners.

In order to prevent accidents like this from happening in the future, employers and staff members need to know the risks associated from working with CO₂ gas, be able to identify early symptoms, and be protected by a fixed gas monitoring system.

Based on the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, common symptoms of CO₂ exposure include dizziness, headache, poor sleep, lassitude, anxiety, ocular changes, coronary heart disease, gastritis, kidney and liver damage, eye and skin burns, and dermatitis. These symptoms will occur only if the NIOSH standard’s recommended exposure limit (REL) and / or Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) standard’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) exceed 5,000 ppm.

CO₂ is an odorless and colorless gas; therefore, humans will not be able to detect it. In order to detect and determine the level of CO₂, a gas detection system needs to be installed. Fixed gas detection systems should be installed in rooms where the CO₂ gas is being installed and where the soda machine is situated. Since CO₂ gas is heavier than air, it is recommended that the fixed gas detectors should be installed at breathing zone which is 4 to 6 feet above the floor. Portable gas detectors are great for those delivering the gas cylinders from different venues in case there’s no fixed gas detection system in place. Installing a gas detection system can ensure staff members and customers are safe and risks are lowered.

For suggestions on fixed or portable gas detectors, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

Since Critical Environment Technologies Canada Inc. (CETCI) launched the Parkade Emissions Transmitter (PET) in September 2010, interests have spiked. PET is a highly competitive and versatile BACnet^® transmitter that is cost effective and is available in five configuration models.

PET BACnet^® transmitter is BTL certified, communicates via BACnet^® protocol MS/TP and is available with one or two electrochemical or solid-state sensors and temperature sensor. PET features thermal resetting fuse, tri-color LED indicators for power and alarm, optional 4-digit LED display, optional remote solid state sensor housing, and an optional 4-20 mA analog input for solid state sensors. In addition, PET includes a new sensor Calibration Extending Firmware (CEF) that takes into account the aging of the sensors so that less frequent calibrations are acceptable in non-critical applications.

Given that PET is available as a dual sensor transmitter; contractors will only need to purchase one unit, instead of two single sensor transmitter units. This could end up being a 30% cost saving. As a standard feature, both single and dual PET comes with a complimentary temperature sensor. There is no need to purchase and install a separate temperature device. All gas and temperature sensor values will be displayed at the same time, on a single unit. Not only is it cost effective to the contractor but is less time and money spent on installation.

PET is available in five configuration models:

• Single integral electrochemical sensor
• Dual integral electrochemical sensor
• Single integral solid-state sensor
• Single remote solid-state sensor
• Single integral solid-state sensor with 4-20 mA input activated for remote analog transmitter

Electrochemical sensor choices include ammonia (NH₃), carbon monoxide (CO), ethylene (C₂H₄), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen (H₂), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), oxygen (O₂), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂). This can be either a single or dual integral transmitter.

Solid state sensor choices include combustibles, TVOCs and refrigerants R11, R12, R22, and R134A. This can be either a single integral, single remote or single integral with analog input capabilities. For the later configuration model, any 24 VDC analog transmitters that output 4-20 mA can be connected to the PET and is powered by the PET. The PET in turn, converts the data to the BACnet^® protocol along with the integral solid-state sensor and temperature value.

PET is ideal for use in non-hazardous vehicle exhaust environments, commercial HVAC and light industrial applications.

For more information on the entire range of gas detection systems and IAQ instruments, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

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Simply visit www.critical-environment.com, subscribe to CETCI Magazine Blog, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter: @cetci, connect with us on LinkedIn, or subscribe to our RSS feed.

Critical Environment Technologies Canada Inc. (CETCI) has doubled its manufacturing and office space to approximately 11,000 square feet as of December 1, 2010.

The service department and production department for portable IAQ instruments have moved into the new additional space. Meanwhile, production department for fixed gas detectors has utilized the space vacated by the portables and service departments in the current plant. Lean manufacturing process principles will continue to be executed as it is one of the basis of CETCI’s success.

The expansion has allowed CETCI to hire more staff in various departments to help increase overall productivity. Despite the recession, CETCI has steadily continued to grow and hire year after year. Just in the past four months alone, CETCI has hired five new employees to join their team. 2011 is no exception. CETCI plans to continue to hire more staff in the coming months to assist in the various departments, production specifically. This plant-wide expansion has and will create several new jobs locally.

With additional staff, CETCI will be able to ensure sustainable customer satisfaction by meeting their customer’s expectations in technology, innovation, support and service.

In addition to expanding plant facility, CETCI has undertaken some energy savings initiative that will reduce electricity consumption. All lighting fixtures and bulbs in all occupied spaces have been replaced with more energy efficient ones.

For more information on the entire range of gas detection systems and IAQ instruments, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

Want to be the first to be notified on updates?

Simply visit www.critical-environment.com, subscribe to CETCI Magazine Blog, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter: @cetci, connect with us on LinkedIn, or subscribe to our RSS feed.

Critical Environment Technologies Canada Inc. (CETCI) is proud to receive the BACnet^® Testing Laboratories (BTL) certification for PET BACnet^® gas detection transmitter on October 15, 2010.

BTL was established by BACnet^® International to test product functionalities based on the BACnet^® standards. BTL’s mandatory requirements must be met in order to be BTL listed.

PET BACnet^® gas detection transmitter has passed the BTL requirements for the BACnet^® Smart Sensor (B-SS) designation. PET is a “Parkade Emissions Transmitter” that communicates via BACnet^® protocol MS/TP and is available with one or two electrochemical sensors or solid-state sensor and temperature sensor. Electrochemical sensor choices include ammonia (NH₃), chlorine (Cl₂), carbon monoxide (CO), ethylene (C₂H₄), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen (H₂), hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), oxygen (O₂), ozone (O₃), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂). Solid state sensor choices include combustibles and refrigerants. PET features thermal resetting fuse, tri-color LED indicators for power and alarm, and an optional 4-digit LED display. In addition, PET includes a new sensor Calibration Extending Firmware (CEF) that takes into account the aging of the sensors so that less frequent calibrations are acceptable in non-critical applications. PET is ideal for use in non-hazardous vehicle exhaust environments, commercial HVAC and light industrial applications.

Every CETCI product is designed to deliver years of reliable operation and is easy to operate.

For more information on the entire range of gas detection systems and IAQ instruments, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

Want to be the first to be notified on updates?

Simply visit www.critical-environment.com, subscribe to CETCI Magazine Blog, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter: @cetci, connect with us on LinkedIn, or subscribe to our RSS feed.

Critical Environment Technologies Canada Inc. (CETCI) officially launches GEM multi-purpose, self-contained gas detector to add to their growing product line.

GEM is a Gas Emissions Monitor that is economical for non-hazardous commercial applications. Applications include, but are not limited to, parking garages, repair shops, arenas, and manufacturing plants. It is available in one or two channel configurations accommodating accurate “smart” sensors. Features include CSA/UL/CE certifications, integral and/or remote sensors, two 5-amp dry contact relays,4-20 mA linear output signal, and optional 4-digit LED display. It includes new sensor CEF (Calibration Extending Firmware) that takes into account the aging of the sensors so that less frequent calibrations are acceptable in non-critical applications.

Every CETCI product is designed to deliver years of reliable operation and is easy to operate.

For more information on the entire range of gas detection systems and IAQ instruments, please visit www.critical-environment.com.

Want to be the first to be notified on updates?

Simply visit www.critical-environment.com, subscribe to CETCI Magazine Blog, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter: @cetci, connect with us on LinkedIn, or subscribe to our RSS feed.