HOW TO CHOOSE A VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR YOUR SALON

Most artificial nail products and the activities involved in applying them create vapors, dust, and even bacteria. These pollutants can cause irritation of the nose, throat, eyes, or skin. The key to preventing illness or discomfort is keeping the air in the salon clean. Air Impurities Removal System's Inc. recommends using a ventilation system to keep the work area and the nail technician's "breathing zone" clear.

There are two general methods for salon ventilation. The first involves installing a system to capture dust and fumes from the points of generation (source-capture method). This method removes contaminants before they can come in contact with people. An alternative is to install a system that will clean the room air (area air cleaning method). This method does not capture pollutants at their source, but it can be helpful as backup ventilation.

When choosing an air purification system for your salon, make sure that multi-stage filtration is provided as standard. This type of system includes an appropriate multi-density media filter for dust; an adsorption module with several pounds of high quality carbon for acrylic and other fumes; and a third stage multi-density media filter for additional contaminant removal. Ask about other filter options for any special application or needs you have. HEPA, ULPA, or various VOC filter media is available.

Both source-capture and area air purification systems should be configured so that the air passes through the filter media and adsorption module before it reaches the blower. This ensures there will be no contaminant buildup or other adverse effects on the blower. Also, for safety purposes, the blower itself should be UL and CE listed.

An appropriate source-capture air purification system should offer a variety of methods for capturing the dust and fumes that are created. Each of these methods should draw the dust and fumes downward or sideways, away from individuals' breathing zones or skin. A good system should be able to be connected to tables with existing cutouts and under-table enclosures, as well as offer a table-top hood enclosure, and a self-supporting, adjustable extractor arm option. Additional source capture options should be available to suit the operator's needs.

Many salons will want their air purification systems to be permanently placed in a specific location. Portability of the system should also be considered, should you salon’s needs change.

Beware of ionizing air cleaners. In addition to poor performance, they expose the user to potentially harmful ozone levels. Warnings have been published by Consumer Reports as well as the Consumers’ Union.