The Proper Way to Sanitize

     
Following Proper Procedures
A successful and responsible salon needs to do all it can to prevent fungal, skin, and nail infections in the course of their business routines. When we think of effective methods for controlling the spread of potentially infectious organisms, we often focus on sanitizing, disinfection and sterilization. The fact is that thorough cleaning procedures can have a huge impact on an effective infection control program. Chemically eliminating infectious organisms is an important goal, but cleaning and rinsing can create a safer environment by removing organisms from items, reducing their population to below infectious levels, or exposing them to the efficacious effects of the biocides you are using. Effective infection prevention requires that each component of the process must be thorough.

Nail Technicians - Hand Washing
Hand washing is essential before and after each service. The use of soap and water before appointments is one of the most common techniques for preventing infections during salon treatments. Washing hands in front of customers is optional, but may assist with forming positive impressions by allowing customers to see the methods being used to ensure proper cleanliness. Some nail technicians prefer to use gloves during service, which is not required in most states, but creates and additional barrier of safety.

Cleaning Implements 
Cleanliness of equipment and implements is the most important step to preventing nail infections and cross contamination.  Tools/implements such as nail clippers, cuticle cutters, files, etc. should be cleaned and disinfected using an EPA Registered Hospital Level Disinfectant that is effective against Hepatitis B or is Tuberculocidal.  Backscratchers Salon Aseptic System with Cavicide is E. P. A registered and is a convenient, ready-to-use disinfectant that is effective against  TB, HBV, HCV, viruses (hydrophilic and lilophilic), bacteria (including MSRA and VRE) and fungi.

Foot spas should be cleaned and disinfected by also using an EPA Registered Hospital Level Disinfectant after each client.

In All Circumstances

Any employee who has contact with any tools or equipment in any way should be thoroughly trained on the proper cleaning and care of the tools with which they will interact. Any employee who is not sufficiently trained in the care of the tools should avoid interacting with them unless supervised to reduce the potential for infectious material to be transmitted. Before any clean item is handled by an employee, they should sanitize their hands  following the instructions above to ensure that no new infectious material is applied to the tool after its cleaning. All tools should be stored in appropriate containers away from contaminants that can cause a nail infection or cross contamination.

For Guidelines on cleaning and disinfecting manicuring and enhancement equipment, download information from the INTA (International Nail Technician Association) and PBA/NMC (Nail Manufacturers Council), HERE

See the entire Salon Aseptic line HERE

Information taken from Guidelines on Cleaning and Disinfecting Manicuring and Enhancement Equipment.