Toxic Exposure for Nail Salon Workers in Tampa: Can I File a Claim?

The beauty industry is rapidly growing, leading to increased demand for nail salons in the Tampa area. A career as a nail technician in Tampa can be incredibly rewarding, providing opportunities for business ownership, creative expression, and solid earnings. However, many nail salon workers experience serious health issues after prolonged exposure to various chemicals. What if you are experiencing some of these issues? Can you file a workers’ compensation claim in Tampa?

What Are the Most Dangerous Chemicals for Nail Salon Workers?

 The list of known toxins in average nail salons is extensive. Researchers say that these include formaldehyde, acetone, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, isopropanol, and many others. Many of these substances are carcinogens or volatile organic compounds. Aside from the gradual development of various cancers, these substances may also cause irritation to the eyes and skin. Some nail salon workers have reported respiratory issues, liver damage, kidney damage, and neurological disorders due to their prolonged exposure to these toxins. In addition, these substances can cause reproductive issues.

Many people are unaware that these are the same chemicals used for fighting fires. Other chemicals common in nail salons are classified as “plasticizers.” Some researchers have determined that nail salons have higher concentrations of toxic chemicals than recycling plants, e-waste plants, and garbage disposal facilities.

Perhaps the most worrying concerns for workers involve reproductive harm. Those who work while pregnant may unwittingly expose their unborn infants to chemicals that can cause considerable harm. This could lead to birth defects and other concerns.

This Is New Information for Many Nail Salon Workers 

Many nail salon workers in Tampa are just learning about these issues for the first time. Many were not properly educated or warned by their employers, and the authorities are now taking steps to educate the public about this threat. Unfortunately, researchers have found that many nail salon workers have “limited English proficiency,” making it difficult to spread awareness.

Mask Replacement Is Essential 

Nail salon workers who are aware of these threats may feel confident that their masks will protect them from toxic exposure. However, studies have shown that masks may not be as effective as many believe. If you’re going to use masks while working at a nail salon, you should replace them regularly.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Tampa Help After Toxic Exposure? 

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa may be able to help if you were exposed to toxins while working at a nail salon. While this might be an overlooked and misunderstood safety issue in the modern era, it is causing very real issues for average people who are just trying to earn a living. You have the right to fight for your rights in this situation, and a workers’ comp claim may provide you with considerable compensation. Contact The Franco Law Firm today for more information.

Sources:

 stories.tamu.edu/news/2025/02/25/researchers-develop-training-program-to-educate-nail-salon-workers-about-chemical-exposure/

sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0269749124017287

cbc.ca/radio/thecurrent/the-current-for-march-15-2022-1.6385287/nail-salon-workers-exposed-to-high-levels-of-toxic-chemicals-new-study-reveals-1.6370054