Cosmetology License Exam Infection Control, Safety, and State Regulations Syllabus

What is the difference between a single-use (disposable) and a multi-use (reusable) implement?

Single-use items are porous or designed to be used once then thrown away; multi-use items are non-porous and can be cleaned and disinfected for reuse on another client.

Give three examples of single-use items that must be discarded after one client.

Examples: emery boards/nail files (porous), wooden orangewood sticks, cotton, gauze, neck strips, and disposable razors.

Why can porous items generally not be disinfected and reused?

Porous materials absorb fluids and microbes into spaces the disinfectant cannot reliably reach, so they cannot be guaranteed safe for reuse.

What is the purpose of the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard?

It protects workers from exposure to bloodborne pathogens (such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C) by requiring exposure controls, training, PPE, and proper handling of blood/body fluids.

Which two agency standards most directly govern salon safety regarding chemicals and blood?

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (SDS/right-to-know) and OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.

List the basic steps to follow if a client is cut and bleeds during a service.

Stop the service, put on gloves, stop the bleeding and clean the area, apply antiseptic/bandage, clean and disinfect any contaminated surfaces, double-bag and discard contaminated single-use items, and disinfect or discard implements.

How should blood-contaminated single-use items be disposed of?

They are placed in a sealed/double bag or marked biohazard container and disposed of according to law; sharps go in a labeled sharps container.

What PPE should a cosmetologist wear when there is risk of contact with blood or body fluids?

Disposable gloves at minimum, and eye protection (and a mask) when there is risk of splashing or aerosols.

When should gloves be changed during salon services?

Between every client, when torn or contaminated, and never reused on another client; hands should be washed before and after glove use.

What is the purpose of protective eyewear in the salon?

To shield the eyes from chemical splashes, aerosols, and possible blood/body fluid spatter during services.

What are Universal Precautions?

An approach that treats all human blood and certain body fluids as if they are infectious, requiring protective measures regardless of a person's known infection status.

How do Standard Precautions differ from Universal Precautions?

Standard Precautions expand Universal Precautions to treat ALL body fluids (except sweat), non-intact skin, and mucous membranes as potentially infectious, not just blood.

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and who must provide it?

An SDS is a document from the product manufacturer detailing a chemical's hazards, handling, storage, and emergency/first-aid information; manufacturers/distributors must provide it for hazardous products.

Under the Hazard Communication ('right-to-know') Standard, what must salons keep on file?

An SDS for every hazardous product used, accessible to all employees so they know the chemicals' hazards and safe handling.

Name three key types of information found on an SDS.

Hazard identification, safe handling/storage, PPE needed, first-aid/emergency measures, and ingredient/exposure information (any three).

What are the basic rules for safe chemical storage in a salon?

Store in original or properly labeled containers, keep them tightly closed, away from heat/flame, in a cool ventilated area, and follow SDS storage instructions.

Why must all chemical containers, including mixing bottles, be labeled?

Labeling identifies contents and hazards so products are not confused, ensuring safe use and compliance with the right-to-know standard.

Why is proper ventilation important when working with salon chemicals?

Ventilation removes fumes and vapors from products like monomers and aerosols, reducing inhalation hazards and the risk of overexposure.

What is ergonomics in the context of salon work?

Ergonomics is designing the work and workspace to fit the body, reducing strain and preventing repetitive-motion and musculoskeletal injuries.

Name two practices that help prevent repetitive-motion injuries for cosmetologists.

Maintain good posture and neutral wrist position, adjust chair/client height, keep wrists straight, take breaks, stretch, and use properly designed/sharp tools (any two).

What is the recommended response if a chemical is splashed into the eyes?

Flush the eyes immediately with water for an extended time (per SDS, often 15 minutes) and seek medical help; follow the SDS first-aid instructions.

What are key fire and electrical safety practices in a salon?

Keep flammables away from heat, don't overload outlets, inspect cords for damage, keep a fire extinguisher accessible, avoid water near electrical units, and unplug appliances when not in use.

How should an electrical appliance be unplugged to prevent hazards?

By grasping the plug itself, not by pulling the cord, to avoid damaging the cord and creating a shock or fire hazard.

Describe the proper hand-washing procedure before a service.

Wet hands, apply soap, scrub all surfaces (including between fingers and under nails) for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry with a clean/disposable towel.

When must a cosmetologist wash their hands?

Before and after every client, after using the restroom, after handling chemicals or contaminated items, and after removing gloves.

In state regulation, what is the difference between a law (statute) and a rule (regulation)?

Laws (statutes) are written by the legislature and define what is permitted/required; rules (regulations) are made by the state board to enforce and explain how the laws are carried out.

What is the role of a state cosmetology board?

To protect the public by writing rules, setting licensing standards, administering exams, licensing professionals/salons, and inspecting and disciplining licensees.

What is reciprocity in cosmetology licensing?

Reciprocity allows a person licensed in one state to obtain a license in another state without repeating full training, if the states have an agreement and requirements are comparable.

What does 'scope of practice' mean, and give an example of a prohibited practice.

Scope of practice defines the services a license legally permits; a prohibited practice is performing services outside it—for example, cutting skin, diagnosing/treating disease, or using methyl methacrylate (MMA) where banned.

What records and standards are typically checked during a salon inspection?

Proper sanitation/disinfection procedures and logs, current displayed licenses, clean covered tool storage, labeled chemicals/SDS access, and overall cleanliness and safety compliance.

Why is documenting the client consultation important for safety and liability?

It records the client's needs, sensitivities, allergies (e.g., patch-test results), services performed, and consent—protecting the client and reducing the cosmetologist's legal liability if a problem arises.