21 February 2017

Worksafe says companies that disregard the health and safety of workers and customers should expect they’ll be held to account.

Kiwi Nails and Spa Limited appeared for sentencing in the Auckland District Court today for using a banned substance.

The salon was inspected by WorkSafe and Auckland Council and it was discovered the company was using a substance called methyl methacrylate to glue artificial nails onto customer’s nails.

Methacrylate is a banned substance and is not allowed to be used as a component or ingredient in any cosmetic product. It is known to cause drowsiness, headaches and trembling hands if people are exposed to the fumes, and it can cause damage to nails and irritate customer’s skin on contact. It is also one of the main components in the manufacture of plastics.

WorkSafe’s Acting General Manager Operations and Specialist Services, Simon Humphries says, “It is unacceptable for companies to put workers and customers in harm’s way by using banned substances which they know are toxic and illegal.”