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NYCOSH - People in pink graduation caps and gowns sit at tables in a decorated classroom labeled "Daffodil Classroom," watching a presentation on a screen at the front of the room.

Nail Salon Workers Organizing, Training & Building Collective Power

Nail salon workers are an essential part of New York’s beauty industry, but for too long, they’ve faced hazardous chemicals, unsafe conditions, and widespread wage exploitation.

The Nail Salon Coalition, co-founded by NYCOSH, is working to change that. Through organizing, training, and policy advocacy, the coalition fights for safer salons, stronger rights, and fair treatment for the thousands of mostly Latina and Asian immigrant women who make this industry run.

About the Nail Salon Coalition

The New York Healthy Nail Salons Coalition (NYHNSC) was created in 2014 by NYCOSH, Adhikaar, and current and former nail salon workers who were ready to take action. The goal was simple but powerful: ensure that every nail salon worker in New York can earn a living without risking their health or their rights.

Since then, the coalition has grown into a strong, unified voice pushing for safer workplaces, fair wages, and respect for the people who power this industry.

Join The Movement
NYCOSH - A person wearing a mask and gloves gives a manicure to another person, with bottles of nail products visible in the foreground.

The Hazards Nail Salon Workers Face

Every day, nail technicians handle products containing chemicals like formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene, which many call the “toxic trio.” These substances are linked to respiratory issues, reproductive harm, and long-term health risks.

Workers also face:

  • Infections from contact with skin, nails, or blood
  • Poor ventilation and constant exposure to fumes
  • Low wages, wage theft, and economic exploitation
  • Limited knowledge of their rights or how to protect themselves


Because the workforce is predominantly women, including many immigrants and expecting mothers, the health consequences can be especially severe and far-reaching.

Beauty shouldn’t come at the cost of health. Every salon worker deserves safety, dignity, and respect.

NYCOSH - A clean, modern nail salon with empty workstations, each equipped with task lamps, nail dryers, stools, and manicure tools.

A Record of Real Change

Through testimony, coalition building, and public advocacy, the Nail Salon Coalition helped secure major victories for workers:

  • 2015: New York passed groundbreaking legislation establishing new licensing and training requirements, wage bond protections to fight wage theft, and stronger enforcement of labor standards.
  • 2016: New York implemented the strongest nail salon ventilation regulations in the country, protecting workers, owners, and clients from harmful fumes.


These wins show what becomes possible when workers, advocates, and community organizations unite behind a shared mission.

Reports & News

NYCOSH - A graduate in a pink cap and gown speaks at a podium while others, also in pink caps and gowns, listen. Two women stand behind the podium.

Training, Rights, and Support for Salon Workers

Today, NYCOSH continues to train hundreds of nail salon workers every year. Our programs include:

  • Help obtaining Trainee and Nail Specialty licenses
  • Training on workplace hazards and health protections
  • Education on labor rights and how to exercise them
  • Referrals to legal services when violations occur


Whether workers are new to the industry or have years of experience, our goal is to provide the knowledge and support needed to stay safe, confident, and empowered on the job.

Join the Movement

The Nail Salon Coalition is shaping an industry where safety, dignity, and fairness are the standard, not the exception. By centering worker voices and community leadership, the coalition continues to strengthen protections and push for lasting change across New York State.

If you’re interested in training, support, or learning more about how to get involved with the Nail Salon Coalition, fill out the form and a NYCOSH representative will contact you shortly with next steps.