Ergonomics and tool science in the salon

Many think about chemistry and allergies when it comes to hairdressers' working environment but according to the Work Environment Authority ergonomic strains — working positions and repetitive movements — are just as big a challenge in the trade. A survey of Danes' working environment shows that a majority of hairdressers feel their work strains their back and shoulders. Unlike an acute injury this type of strain develops gradually often over many years and that makes it easy to overlook in a busy everyday life.

The Labour Authority points to three specific habits that have a major effect in daily work at the chair.

• 01Use the customer chair actively – it can be raised and lowered without damage, your back cannot. Adjust it so you work with a straight back and elbows down, rather than bending down to the customer.
• 02Keep elbows down and close to the body – shoulders held raised hour after hour are one of the most common sources of pain among hairdressers.
• 03Take breaks – short, frequent breaks give the muscles time to recover, while long, infrequent breaks don't provide the same benefit.

The quality of tools has direct impact on your strain. A dull pair of scissors requires more force per cut, which increases the strain on fingers, wrist and forearm hour after hour. Light, well-fitted scissors with a good finger hole size reduce grip force and reduce the risk of tendinitis and other strain injuries in hand and wrist. Clippers should be kept clean and sharp for the same reason – a tool that works against you also makes your body work.

A working day as a hairdresser typically involves standing for many hours. Non-slip, shock-absorbing shoes and an anti-fatigue mat by the chair reduce the strain on your feet, knees and lower back. Change your standing leg regularly, and avoid standing with a locked back and straight knees – a light, relaxed standing position puts less strain than a tense one.

“Your hands and back need to last a whole working life – the habits you develop as an apprentice will follow you throughout your career.”