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

Typical hazards & measures

• Musculoskeletal strain (technician) — Set table/chair height for neutral wrists and shoulders, use arm supports, and schedule micro-stretches. Choose light, balanced handpieces, alternate tasks to avoid prolonged pinch grips, and log discomfort early so workstation setup can be adjusted.
• Material sensitivities (latex/adhesives/tapes) — Ask about latex and adhesive reactions; stock nitrile gloves and hypoallergenic tapes, rotating glove brands if irritation occurs. Moisturise hands post-service and record sensitivities to guide future setups, avoiding known triggers in subsequent visits.
• Laundry and soft-surface hygiene — Bag used linens separately; wash ≥60 °C and dry fully before reuse. Replace toe separators/abrasives that cannot be disinfected; store clean linens covered, schedule mid-shift laundering, and run weekly audits to verify segregation, stock rotation and supply levels.
• 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.
• 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.