Nail Manufacturers Council
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The Nail Manufacturers Council (NMC), a sub-group of the American Beauty Association, is dedicated to educating nail technicians and promoting issues specific to the nailcare and nail enhancement segment of the professional beauty industry. The mission of the American Beauty Association and all of its sub-groups is to "expand, serve and protect the interests of the professional beauty industry."
The NMC was formed in 1989 in response to the growth of the nailcare industry and has since made significant strides toward a unified and improved nail industry. The NMC membership is composed of more than 50 leading nail products manufacturers committed to leading the nailcare industry into a prosperous 21st century.
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Guidelines For Professional Nail Technicians
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1. Nail Technicians and their clients should thoroughly clean their hands prior to and after each service. Hand washing is one of the most important actions that can be taken to control infection by preventing the transfer of microorganisms from one person to another.
2. All implements, instruments, tools and surfaces should be properly disinfected prior to servicing each client. This includes pedicure spas, footbaths, drill bits, finger bowls, etc. Today, most states require hospital level disinfection for your protection. Follow your local state regulations to make certain that you are in compliance. NOTE: If blood is accidentally drawn during a manicure/pedicure procedure, disinfect the contaminated implement before proceeding with the service.
3. Clean towels and/or manicure mats should be used for each client. Utilize disposable items whenever possible to reduce contamination and to save time.
4. Read and follow manufacturer’s instructions, cautions and warnings before using all products and chemicals. Regardless of the product selected, label directions must be precisely followed to protect yourself and your client against problems that may arise from misuse. Also note storage instructions and expiration date on package denoting shelf-life.
5. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for proper disposal of all chemicals. Dispose of chemicals following local, state or federal regulations.
6. Have a Material Safety Data Sheet on file in your salon for every product you are using. Make certain that the information on the MSDS is read and understood by all employees. MSDS are designed to help you understand how to work safely with chemicals in your work area.
7. Strive to obtain a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education annually from manufactures and/or generic industry sources. Education is a key ingredient in the development of every career, and ongoing training will enhance your experience as a nail care professional.
8. Discard disposable items immediately after use in a covered trash container. Any disposable materials contaminated by blood or body fluids should be disposed of following local, state or federal regulations.
9. Proper ventilation in nail salons is essential. Make certain that your ventilation system provides fresh air intake as well as exhaustion of stale air. Air control in the salon reduces your exposure to airborne particles and bacteria as well as to inhalation of chemical fumes, creating a healthier work environment.
10. Utilize a system that directs airborne debris, such as nail filings, away from the breathing zone of you and your client. A mask may also be worn to prevent inhalation of airborne particles.
11. Observe proper hygiene and grooming and maintain a professional attitude at all times. As a nail industry professional, your image and demeanor represent a measure of success. We are in the “business of beauty,” and your clients deserve to be pampered in a relaxed atmosphere.
12. Smoking should not be permitted at the manicure station or in areas where chemicals are used or stored. In order to ensure that products or chemicals are not inadvertently ignited, nail care professional should be responsible for compliance . . . the same applies to candles. Remember to store all nail care chemicals in closed containers.
13. Follow and obey all local, state and federal rules and regulations. Compliance brings peace of mind and assures the safety and well-being of you and your clients.
14. Recommend that clients with questionable nail conditions seek medical advice. Establish a professional relationship with a local dermatologist, who is willing to accept your referrals. Explain that you are adhering to strict sanitary procedures and express your concern for clients who require treatment for nail disorders.
15. Inform your clients of proper nail care between salon visits. Assisting your clients with proper nail care affords you the opportunity to retail products that will maintain the “beauty” of your service, while reducing the incidence of recurring technical problems.
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