California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlHard
A stylist performs several keratin smoothing treatments in one day using a product that releases formaldehyde gas when heated. Multiple clients and the stylist report headaches and eye irritation by the end of the shift. What is the best corrective action to reduce this chemical exposure risk under Cal/OSHA guidelines?
- ASpray air freshener throughout the salon to mask the odor
- BInstall and use local exhaust ventilation at the styling station along with appropriate PPE based on the SDS
- CSwitch to using the product only in the morning hours
- DAsk clients to hold their breath during the flat-ironing step
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Install and use local exhaust ventilation at the styling station along with appropriate PPE based on the SDS
Formaldehyde is a hazardous air contaminant requiring source-capture (local exhaust) ventilation and PPE selected based on the product's SDS to protect both the stylist and clients. Masking odors or timing services does not reduce actual chemical exposure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect — air freshener masks odor but does not remove or reduce the hazardous chemical.
- C. Incorrect — timing does not reduce the chemical concentration or exposure.
- D. Incorrect — this is impractical and does not protect the stylist performing repeated services.
Formaldehyde Exposure Control
Formaldehyde-releasing keratin treatments require local exhaust ventilation and SDS-guided PPE to protect against respiratory and eye irritation.
- Formaldehyde is a known irritant and carcinogen at high exposure
- SDS lists permissible exposure limits and required PPE
- Local exhaust ventilation captures fumes at the source, better than general ventilation
- Repeated daily exposure increases health risk for stylists
Memory trick: Capture fumes at the source before they capture your lungs.