Nail salon owner hit with £5000 fine

Dong Thi Le (29), owner of American Nails, Regent Street in Mansfield, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 at Mansfield Magistrates’ Court on On 6th March.

The breach occurred in March 2013 when a member of staff used an electric nail file on a customer’s natural nail, which is against guidelines for the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA). This led to an infection of the customer’s middle finger.

Dong Thi Le was fined £5,000 and ordered to pay Mansfield District Council’s costs of £1,691 and a £120 victim surcharge.

In fining Dong Thi Le, the Magistrates took into account that American Nails had been previously advised by Mansfield District Council on good hygiene practices and had not taken action.

In mitigation Dong Thi Le had no previous convictions.

Coun Mick Barton, portfolio holder for public protection at Mansfield District Council, said: “I hope this prosecution sends out a clear message that failing to comply with hygiene laws is a serious matter.

“Mansfield District Council works closely with all nail salons in the District to promote high standards in hygiene and cleanliness.

“Unfortunately, there are some businesses who do not maintain these standards and, in these cases, the Council will not hesitate to use enforcement action to ensure that the health of the public is not compromised.”