Nail salon workers, primarily Asian and Latin American immigrant women, are facing higher rates of reproductive health issues compared to the general population. A new report from the New York Health Nails Salons Coalition highlights these disparities and calls for legislative action to improve working conditions and address health risks in the industry.
According to a survey of 312 women nail techs, 17% have experienced reproductive health issues, 18% have had complications during pregnancy, and 7% have had children born with birth defects – all higher than the general U.S. population rates. The report also revealed that many nail salons in New York do not provide adequate protective equipment for workers, leading to exposure to harmful chemicals in nail products.
Assembly Member Harry Bronson emphasizes the need for regulations that protect the health and rights of nail salon workers while Assembly Member Jessica Ramos emphasizes the importance of creating policies that prioritize women’s health without compromising small businesses. Senator Ramos is sponsoring the Nail Salon Minimum Standards Council Act which aims to create new labor standards for nail salons in New York by forming an industry council with input from workers, employers, and government representatives.
The coalition of nail salon workers, elected officials, and reproductive health advocates are calling for urgent action to implement regulations that protect the health and rights of nail salon workers. They are demanding better working conditions, access to healthcare and protections from exposure to hazardous chemicals in nail products.
