Scents in the Workplace

Can scents cause health problems?

Exposure to scented products can adversely affect a person's health and trigger allergies or chemical sensitivities. Reported symptoms from asthmatic persons, as well as those with other conditions can vary, ranging from headaches, migraines and confusion to anxiety, upper respiratory issues and skin irritation.    

 What should I do if I have chemical sensitivities?

Employees:

• If you feel uncomfortable approaching the individual directly, speak with your supervisor.
• Direct them to this web page for more information. Education is the key when discussing the situation.
• Post a Scent Safe Poster in your building or work area.
• If necessary ask your supervisor to relocate you to another area until the scent is gone.
• If the situation persists contact Health and Safety for further assistance.

Supervisors:

• Approach the individual discreetly. Explain to the individual that scented products can cause health issues for some people.
• Clearly and courteously explain the benefits of adopting scent-free practices. Remember most people are unaware of the negative impact scented products have on some people.
• Explain what the problem is and discuss how the conflict could be resolved (e.g. ask them to wear a lighter scent, or less of it).
• The supervisor should approach the individual to discuss how the issue could be resolved. On reaching a resolution, the supervisor should document and inform all parties of what has been agreed.
• Post a Scent Safe Poster in your building or work area.
• Keep the individual with the sensitivity informed of what has been done on his/her behalf.
• Continue to monitor the situation until it has been resolved.

Faculty:

• Maintain a scent free environment in your classrooms and labs.
• If a student approaches you with a scent concern discreetly approach the individual(s) wearing the scent and inform the individual(s) of the scent sensitivities some of their classmates possess.
• Encourage students to wear scent-safe alternatives.

Individuals who have been approached about their scented personal products: 

• Do not take offence.
  
• Consider switching to a scent-safe alternative.