Nail services & enhancements (manicure, pedicure, gel/acrylic, e-file) Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Instrument sanitation and sterilisation — Clean debris, then disinfect or sterilise by tool type; change solutions daily and log contact times. Where used, validate autoclave cycles with weekly spore tests, store sterile items sealed, and never reuse single-use tools; weekly audits verify stock rotation and compliance.
• Ingrown nail aggravation and contraindications — Avoid invasive corner cutting; file edges straight with gentle bevel and never probe sulci. Screen for diabetes, vascular issues and active infections; defer cosmetic work over inflamed or infected areas and signpost for podiatry; document adapted shaping.
• Pedicure bath hygiene and water control — Use single-use liners or clean, disinfect and flush jets to contact time between clients; scrub debris traps and air-dry open. Change water each client, test temperature before immersion, limit soak duration, and towel-dry thoroughly; log cleaning cycles.
• Overfiling and plate thinning — Assess plate thickness and condition; choose appropriate grit and light, single-direction strokes to remove surface shine only. Avoid aggressive corner work and re-assess at each infill to prevent cumulative thinning; document any sensitivity to guide future prep.
• Filing dust and particulates exposure — Fit table extraction or local LEV close to source, offer disposable masks on request, and position intakes between hands and face. Avoid compressed air; wet-wipe to finish, empty filters to schedule, and bin dust in lidded containers to prevent re-entrainment.