When people search for gel nails or builder gel, they tend to focus on colour, quality, and design. They’ll hunt down inspiration for a classic French manicure, track down a specialist at The GelBottle Inc., or scroll through Instagram for the latest BIAB trends. Sadly, air quality rarely makes the shortlist.
In a setting filled with chemical fumes and fine dust, a salon’s atmosphere can have a bigger impact than you might think, not just on comfort, but on long-term health. For staff working back-to-back appointments, exposure to vapours and airborne particles can quickly add up. That’s where we came in.
A Breath of Fresh Air for Rehab Beauty
In 2023, Rehab Beauty in Nottingham reached out to us to help improve the air quality in their salon. Known locally for their builder gel and nail art services, they wanted to offer more than stunning nails; they wanted to provide a cleaner, safer space for both staff and clients.
The issue wasn’t style. It was what you couldn’t see.
Nail services release a mix of chemical vapours and micro-dust. Filing alone generates particles small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, increasing the risk of asthma and other respiratory issues. Acrylic fumes can trigger dizziness and headaches. It’s not just a matter of comfort; it’s a workplace health risk.
That’s why Rehab Beauty decided to invest in four Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems to help keep harmful pollutants out of the breathing zone.
What LEV Systems Actually Do
Our LEV solutions are designed to deal with airborne hazards at source. Rather than relying on general ventilation or hoping a window will do the trick, these systems capture contaminants directly at the workstation, right where the dust or fumes are released.
At Rehab Beauty, each LEV unit is fitted with multi-stage filtration: pre-filters to capture larger particles, HEPA filters for fine dust, and activated carbon filters to tackle chemical fumes. These filters help remove airborne threats before they ever reach the lungs.
It’s not just a one-and-done solution. To keep everything running efficiently, the salon committed to regular filter changes and maintenance checks. Our systems also come with testing options to make sure performance stays within safety thresholds, which is part of our commitment to thorough examination and compliance.
Safe Services, Same Standards
One of Rehab Beauty’s top priorities was maintaining the same high standard of service that their clients expect. They didn’t want bulky equipment or noisy machinery getting in the way. So we worked closely with them to integrate LEV units directly into their nail and lash workstations.
This created a cleaner environment without disrupting workflow or client experience. This created a salon that feels just as stylish as ever, but is far safer behind the scenes.
From the client’s perspective, the change might be subtle. But behind the scenes, it’s a significant step forward. Nail techs aren’t breathing in dust all day. Fumes are handled before they become a problem. Everyone can work and relax in cleaner air.
Matching Innovation with Cutting Edge Brands
Rehab Beauty uses some of the most cutting-edge products in the nail industry, including builder gels and gel polishes from The GelBottle Inc™. Their commitment to quality, colour, and cruelty-free formulations has made it a favourite with clients and technicians alike.
That commitment to innovation extends beyond the products themselves. By investing in LEV technology, Rehab Beauty has created an environment that reflects the forward-thinking ethos of the brands they use. It’s a modern approach to health and hygiene in a sector that’s often overlooked when it comes to workplace safety.
It’s Not Just About Compliance
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that all LEV systems be examined and tested at least every 14 months, and that filters are replaced at regular intervals to maintain effectiveness. Rehab Beauty’s approach goes one step further, taking ownership of air quality as part of their brand values, not just a tick-box exercise.
They chose a system that not only meets regulations but goes beyond them. That means healthier staff, greater client trust, and a professional environment that reflects the high standards of the services they deliver.
Looking to Create a Cleaner, Safer Workspace
At VODEX, we specialise in providing LEV and fume extraction systems that are tailored to the environment they’re used in, whether that’s a nail salon, a manufacturing line, or a jeweller’s bench. We worked closely with Rehab Beauty to install and integrate four bespoke systems that help capture dust and fumes at the source without compromising on style or service.
We don’t just supply equipment. We guide you through every step from choosing the right system to ongoing maintenance and testing. If you’re looking to upgrade your working environment with effective extraction that’s built to last, we’re here to help.
FAQs
What is Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)?
LEV is a system designed to capture dust, fumes, and airborne contaminants at the source before they enter the breathing space.
How often should LEV systems be serviced or tested?
The HSE recommends a thorough examination and test at least every 14 months. Filters should also be changed regularly based on usage.
Do LEV systems make a lot of noise?
No, most modern LEV systems are designed to be quiet and unobtrusive, especially when integrated into workstations.
Is dust from nail filing really harmful?
Yes. Fine nail dust can be inhaled and cause respiratory issues, especially with long-term exposure in poorly ventilated areas.
Can extraction systems be fitted into existing workspaces?
Yes, many LEV solutions can be customised or retrofitted to suit your current setup without needing major changes.
