Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

Why are electric files sold at craft and tool stores not recommended for salon use?

1. They are too heavy for technicians

2. They are less precise

3. They cause wrist damage to the tech

4. They are difficult to operate

The correct answer is: They cause wrist damage to the tech

Electric files sold at craft and tool stores are not recommended for salon use primarily due to their design and functionality, which can lead to wrist damage for technicians. Unlike the specialized electric files designed for nail technicians that prioritize ergonomics, weight distribution, and ease of use, craft and tool store versions tend to be bulkier and not ergonomically optimized for prolonged use in a salon setting. This lack of ergonomic consideration can result in repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, which can develop from improper wrist positioning and the physical weight of using an unsuitable tool over long periods. Therefore, while other issues such as precision and ease of operation are considered for specific use cases, the risk of physical harm to the technician is a primary concern that highlights the unsuitability of general-purpose electric files for professional nail services.