Salon Safety, Sanitation and First Aid
What the exam tests
This domain tests infection control, disinfection versus sterilisation, electrical and chemical safety, waste handling and first aid for common salon accidents. You must know the correct immediate action for cuts, burns, eye splashes and allergic reactions.
Core rules and concepts
- Cleaning removes dirt; disinfection kills most pathogens on tools and surfaces; sterilisation kills all microorganisms including spores, usually by autoclave.
- Use single-use items for porous materials such as files, buffers and wooden sticks. Wash, dry and disinfect reusable metal tools.
- Store clean and dirty tools separately. Keep chemicals labelled, closed and away from heat. Never mix cleaning chemicals.
- For a cut, wear gloves, apply pressure, clean and cover with a waterproof dressing, then report.
- For a burn, cool under running water for about 20 minutes, cover loosely and seek help. Do not use ice, butter or toothpaste.
- For an eye splash, rinse with clean water or saline for about 15 minutes and refer.
Worked example
Hot wax spills on a client's arm. Stop the service, cool the area under running water for about 20 minutes, cover it loosely and advise medical review. Reasoning: cooling limits tissue damage; ice or greasy home remedies can worsen the injury.
Traps that cost marks
- Putting ice or toothpaste on a burn.
- Popping blisters.
- Reusing blades or porous files.
- Storing clean and dirty tools together.
- Rinsing an eye splash for only a few seconds.