Project Summary 

Nail salon workers—primarily women, immigrants, and low-wage earners—are regularly exposed to harmful chemicals, posing serious short and long-term health risks. While Michigan has over 3,000 salons, the sector remains under-regulated with limited safety standards and few accessible training resources, particularly for non-English speakers. Language barriers, complex technical materials, and limited workplace protections leave workers with little power to advocate for safer conditions, posing a critical challenge for environmental sustainability and occupational health. 

Supported by a Catalyst Grant, this project developed the only interactive online chemical safety training module readily accessible to nail salon workers in Michigan. Piloted in both English and Vietnamese, the mobile-friendly, adult-learner-focused tool significantly improved workers’ knowledge of chemical safety practices and increased confidence in protective measures.

The training module was built on early content developed by the team and partners within the Michigan Healthy Nail Salon Cooperative (MHNSC), in collaboration with a community advisory board (CAB). With Catalyst Grant funding, the team partnered with technology firm InXsol to transform the original module onto a dynamic and accessible platform. The California Healthy Nail Salon Collaborative (CHNSC) also provided input during development and piloting.

This project laid the groundwork for continued impact. The module was adopted into the curriculum at Huron Valley Beauty Academy and contributed to broader advocacy efforts, including a campaign supported by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to offer Michigan’s nail technician licensing exam in Vietnamese. The training was shared with stakeholders across Michigan and inspired the team to develop additional modules on other key safety topics. 

The Catalyst grant enabled the team to secure follow-on funding support from the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and additional U-M grants focused on nail salon worker health and COVID-19 protections. Collaborations with U-M Nursing’s Healthcare Innovation Impact Program (HiiP) extended beyond the project period to support expansion of the training, development of new modules, and exploration of certification pathways for Michigan salons committed to high safety standards. The project team presented findings and engaged with nail salon owners, managers, and technicians through professional associations, advocacy groups, and informal networks. 

In the Media

• U-M partnership with Michigan nail salons promotes better environment for workers, clients | University of Michigan News
• Michigan Minds Podcast: Protecting the Health & Safety of Nail Salon Employees | University of Michigan News
• U-M Program Helps Nail Salon Owners | University of Michigan Video Feature
• Sustaining a Healthy Nail Salon Workforce in Michigan | Michigan Center on Lifestage Environmental Exposures and Disease (M-LEEaD) Seminar
• Nailed It Film Screening and Panel Discussion | University of Michigan School of Public Health Event

This Project Received a $10,000 Catalyst Grant in 2021.

Project Tteam: Marie-Anne Rosemberg, PI (Nursing); Patricia Koman, Co-I (Public Health); Aurora Le, Co-I (Public Health); Tuan Nguyen (Workplace Health Without Borders); Henry Ryng (InxSol President & Founder); Swati Sharma (California Healthy Nail Salon Collaborative).