Nail Salon Ventilation Requirements in New York

Ensuring proper ventilation in nail salons is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for both technicians and clients. In New York, specific regulations outline how nail salons must manage air quality and ventilation systems to mitigate the risks associated with indoor air pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) commonly found in salon products.

Understanding the New York State Building Code

The New York State Building Code, which incorporates the 2024 International Mechanical Code (IMC), is the primary source of regulations concerning ventilation requirements for commercial properties, including nail salons. These standards, integrated into the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, outline the specifics of mechanical and local exhaust systems necessary for compliance.

Mechanical Ventilation & Exhaust Specifications Summary

Source Capture System: Each nail station must be equipped with a source capture system, a mechanical exhaust system designed to capture air contaminants at their source. The exhaust inlets of the system must be factory-installed or field-installed, positioned no more than 12 inches from the point of chemical application at the manicure or pedicure station.

Minimum Airflow: Nail salons are required to provide mechanical ventilation systems capable of exhausting a minimum of 50 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per manicure and pedicure station.

Outside Exhaust: All mechanical exhaust must be directed to the outdoor atmosphere, ensuring that recirculation of air within the salon is prohibited. The exhaust discharge must be located where it does not cause a nuisance and cannot be recirculated into the building.

Exhaust Air & Makeup Air: The ventilation system must maintain a balanced airflow, supplying outdoor air at a rate equal to the exhaust rate. This is crucial for ensuring compliance with the 2024 IMC standards.

b. Mechanical exhaust is mandatory; recirculation of air within these spaces is prohibited.

h. Each manicure and pedicure station must include a source capture system capable of exhausting at least 50 cfm per station. Exhaust inlets should be installed following Section 502.20 of the IMC.

Section 502.20 - Manicure and Pedicure Stations

All manicure and pedicure stations must incorporate an exhaust system per the standards in Table 403.3.1.1h. Stations without factory-installed exhaust inlets should have them field-installed, positioned within 12 inches horizontally and vertically from the chemical application point.

Achieve Compliance with HealthyAir® Systems

HealthyAir® is committed to aiding New York nail salon owners in meeting and exceeding ventilation requirements through our advanced Source Capture systems.

• Regulatory Alignment: Our systems provide the necessary airflow and source capture capabilities to meet New York's minimum ventilation standards of 50 cfm per station.

• Effective Contaminant Capture: With our patented eHEPA® filtration technology, HealthyAir® systems capture and deactivate harmful airborne pollutants and VOCs effectively.

• Ease of Installation and Use: Our solutions seamlessly fit into existing salon infrastructure or new salon projects, minimizing the need for significant modifications.

• Durable Performance: Designed for longevity, our air purification systems ensure reliable operation with minimal maintenance, promoting sustained compliance and air quality improvement over time.

HealthyAir® System Installation Considerations

Nail salon owners must ensure compliance with both state and local regulations during ventilation system installations.

A separate electrical permit may be necessary for installing ceiling-mount and wall-mount source capture systems.

Connecting the unit to an outside exhaust requires the expertise of a local HVAC technician, plumber, or general contractor.

Continued Compliance and Best Practices

To remain compliant with New York regulations:

• Regularly maintain and inspect all ventilation systems to verify correct and efficient operation.

• Document all cleaning and disinfection procedures, particularly for pedicure equipment, to comply with sanitation guidelines.

HealthyAir® is here to support your journey towards achieving a healthier salon environment, adhering to New York's stringent standards. By investing in our cutting-edge solutions, you can enhance safety, health, and satisfaction for both your clients and staff.