Fingernail sculptors may be exposed to ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate in their workplace. The literature suggests that these chemicals may cause sensitization in individuals who are exposed to sufficient quantities. Cases of occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis have been reported among persons who work with these chemicals. Little personal exposure data exists on nail technicians' exposures to these chemicals, especially ethyl methacrylate. The literature suggests that the industrial hygiene practices used for methyl methacrylate also be applied to ethyl methacrylate since more is known about methyl methacrylate. Previous exposure studies have revealed relatively low exposures to these chemical. There are no U.S. occupational exposure limits for ethyl methacrylate. The objectives of this study were to measure nail sculptors' exposure to ethyl methacrylate and/or methyl methacrylate vapors in their personal breathing zone, describe the interior lay-out of the nail salon in relation to where the chemical vapors were generated, and quantify the volume of air supplied by the HVAC. This study was designed to further characterize and quantify nail technicians' exposures to ethyl methacrylate and methyl methacrylate. Two nail salons were identified as study sites. A total of five fingernail sculptors volunteered to participate. Personal sampling pumps and activated charcoal media were used to collect organic vapors in the personal breathing zones of the participants. The samples were collected for an entire work shift and analyzed by gas chromatography with dual flame ionization detection, per a modified OSHA 7 Protocol. The 8-hour time weighted averages ranged from <1 - 31 parts per million of ethyl methacrylate and <1 - 5.2 parts per million methyl methacrylate. These levels were similar to those already reported in the literature. These levels were below any U.S. occupational exposure level in place or suggested. Local exhaust ventilation appeared to make a difference, as did natural ventilation. The results of this study strongly suggested that methyl methacrylate was used at one salon despite a ban on its use in nail products.

July 2010. "Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational Therapy, Occupational Therapy Department, College of Allied Health and Nursing, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida" Objective. The following research questions were posed: (1) Does participatory ergonomic education and programming influence occupational performance among cosmetologists? (2) Does ergonomic education and programming influence quality of life among cosmetologists? (3) Does ergonomic education and programming influence pain among cosmetologists? (4) Does ergonomic education and programming influence numbness and tingling in the upper extremities of cosmetologists? The purpose of this study was to: (1) implement a participatory ergonomic program for cosmetologists and (2) to examine the effectiveness of the implemented program in decreasing signs and symptoms associated with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Method. A multiple baseline, single subject design was used. Data were collected from seven subjects for a total of 12 weeks. The intervention was introduced to subjects at different times throughout the study and consisted of general ergonomic education, a participatory ergonomic interview session, and basic range of motion stretches. Outcome measures included the QuickDASH, a 10-point pain scale, and a 10-point numbness and tingling scale. Data were analyzed using visual analysis techniques including the two-standard deviation band method and the binomial test method. Data trends were assessed to further support the results. Results. The results of this study indicate that ergonomic programming improved occupational performance, improved quality of life, decreased upper extremity pain, and decreased upper extremity numbness and tingling for several of the participants. The results of this study also produced statistically significant changes in QuickDASH scores indicating improved quality of life and improved occupational performance. Statistically significant change in pain scores and numbness/tingling scores indicated that several participants experienced decreased pain, numbness, and tingling in the upper extremity. Conclusion. The results of this study support the assumption that cosmetologists experience symptoms consistent with work-related musculoskeletal disorders and respond to participatory ergonomic programming similar to other working groups. The results of this study support the main principles of the participatory ergonomic approach which focus on involvement of the worker. The participatory ergonomic approach used in this study aligns with the client-centered principles found in the practice of occupational therapy and therefore provides evidence of effective occupational therapy intervention.