Scents in the Workplace

My employer recently posted the following memo to inform employees about multiple chemical sensitivity and let them know of their responsibility to help make Baker Book House a scent-free workplace.

For most employees, unwanted scents are an inconvenience, but for some, these scents cause dizziness or nauseousness, give headaches or even migraines, any of which may result in going home to recover.

This environmental illness is called multiple chemical sensitivity and is caused by repeated exposure to airborne chemicals reaching the brain via the nose.

Over time the problem can become worse as scents that once were tolerated or even enjoyed begin to cause problems. During the winter months the problem is multiplied as cold weather dries out nasal membranes allowing scents to more readily make their way to the brain.

This illness can be triggered by such things as perfumes, colognes,hand lotions, aftershaves, scented candles, poinsettias, pine boughs, and the like. And because sensitivity increases over time, the list of items causing this illness grows every year.

Since this disability is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, we are responsible to eliminate this problem and ask your cooperation in making Baker Book House a scent-free work environment.

Thank you,
Baker Book House Management

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