SALON WORKERS GET MASKS, GLOVES

by reid spagna

nail salon workers may soon get the right to wear protective masks and gloves while serving customers. the state legislature passed a bill june 24 that would require nail salons to provide masks and gloves at the request of an employee.

glues, solvents, nail polish cleaner and other products used in nail salons contain chemicals such as formaldehyde. chemicals found in these products can lead to reproductive, neurological and respiratory problems. workers have complained that daily exposure to these chemicals cause rashes, headaches and birth defects. those problems are compounded in nail salons with poor ventilation.

assembly member linda rosenthal, the bill's author, hopes that this bill will lead the way for her legislation banning three toxic ingredients found in nail salon products.

"allowing them to wear gloves and masks will protect them against the toxins in their workplace and set the precedent that we cannot ignore their well-being any longer," said rosenthal in a statement.

the bill awaits gov. david paterson's signature.