First aid for hairdressers: 5 emergencies to avoid

Do beauty salons need to know about first aid? After Toni and Guy’s School of Cosmetology in Orange County asked me to talk to their students about first aid, I realized there was a huge lack of information about things that can happen in beauty salons.

So what are the main types of emergencies that can occur in hair salons?

Here are the top 5 hazards in the salon:

1.) Cuts

2.) Thermal burns

3.) Electrical burns

4.) Falls

5.) Chemical spills / inhalation

Cuts – Stylists use sharp scissors and cuts are a possibility. Did the stylist pull too much around your ear and make you look like Van Gogh? Better pack some gauze in that first aid kit.

Thermal burns – With straightening irons, tweezers and ovens in cosmetology schools, thermal burns are very likely. Cold water works best on burns; stay away from ointments, butter, etc.

Electrical burns – Too many appliances plugged into multiple sockets can cause fires. Curling iron, straightener and hair dryer? All of these draw considerable amperage and can overload electrical cables. Remember to also keep them away from water to avoid electrocution. Make sure your staff also know how to disconnect power at your circuit panel.

Falls – The broom is your friend! Keeping your hair tied back will prevent falls, ankle sprains, and broken wrists. The last thing you need is an old lady to turn upside down in the living room and the fire department to show up.

Spills and inhalation of chemicals – 99% of all classrooms are well ventilated and it is important to keep chemicals separate. Bleach and ammonia are poisonous when mixed. Each room must have an MSDS (Material Safety and Data Sheets) listing all chemicals used in the room and their chemical properties to comply with OSHA.

There you go! Cuts, burns, falls, and chemical spills can wreak havoc on you, your staff, and your customers. Protect yourself as best you can! Do you want all of your staff to be on the same page? Many CPR and first aid companies offer CPR training on site and will train you in your classroom. Your staff and clients will thank you!