Guidelines - Scented Products
Bulletin on the Use of Scented Products(Printable posters available at bottom of bulletin)
Introduction
York University endeavors to provide an indoor environment that supports the University community at work and study. We are aware that some people experience severe health problems from exposure to chemicals contained in scented products including aftershave lotions, hair spray, deodorants and fragrances. This bulletin is to raise awareness about the effects of scented products on some individuals as well as to provide information on what to do if you are affected by the use of these products.
What impact could scented products have on the health of some individuals?
Many chemicals contained in scented products are known to be respiratory irritants. They can trigger asthmatic reactions and migraine headaches in some individuals even at very low concentration. Individuals sensitive to these chemicals may experience a wide range of symptoms such as rashes, severe headaches, nausea, dizziness and shortness of breath. When exposure is indoors, the impact is magnified.
What do you do if a co-worker or someone in your department is wearing a scented product that is causing you problems?
Discuss the situation with your supervisor or department head first. You may be advised to approach the individual in a cordial and respectful manner and let them know how scents affect your health. Share any supportive reference documents. Seek their cooperation and understanding. Suggest they consider using an unscented product. If the person requests additional documentation, refer them to the Department of Occupational Health and Safety. You may wish to place the attached scented product poster in your office or on the door so that people are aware of your concern.
What will be done when I report the scented product problem in the workplace?
Your supervisor or department head will first ask you how the product(s) in question have affected you and what symptoms you are experiencing. Be specific about your symptoms. Explain when your symptoms appear.
Your supervisor or department head will document this information and pursue one or more of the following options: suggest that you approach the person wearing the scented product in a cordial and respectful manner as explained above; distribute this bulletin to all staff and discuss the content as a general workplace issue or discuss your concerns privately with the individual involved and suggest that an unscented product be used as an alternative because of the adverse effects that are being experienced.
What happens if the scented product continues to be worn?
The department head may be asked to address the concern sensitively based on the specific circumstances involved. All management parties will endeavor to resolve the issue in a way that is respectful of the feelings and dignity of all concerned. A directive may be issued by the department head that only unscented products be worn in the area.
What if I am approached about a scented product I am wearing?
Do not be embarrassed. Ask questions such as: is it the amount or the type causing the effects? Be willing to reach a resolution in a cooperative manner. Consider an alternative unscented product.
REFERENCES
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1.
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Guidelines on Wearing Scented Products. University of Waterloo Health and Safety Manual. October 1999. |
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2.
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Statement on the Use of Scented Products. Dalhousie University. September 1995. |
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3.
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Canadian asthma consensus report, 1999. Canadian Medical Association Journal. |
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4.
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No Scents is Good Sense. OHS Canada. Jan/Feb 1998. Brenda Marsh. |
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5.
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1995 Conference of the Association
on Higher Education and Disability. July 20. Multiple Chemical Sensitivities. S.Bastien. |
Department of Occupational Health and Safety, April,
2001
Scented Products Posters
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Skunk Poster | 
(PDF) |
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(HTML) |
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Coffee Poster |
(PDF) |
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(HTML) |
