Workplaces have made significant strides in accessibility. They may offer sign language interpreters, ramps, elevators, new bathrooms and even a fragrance-free environment.
What Is a Fragrance-Free Environment?
A fragrance-free environment is any public space that doesn’t allow workers or visitors to use fragrant products like perfume, cologne, scented soaps, laundry detergents or strong cleaning supplies.
In many cases, workplaces will request a fragrance-free environment while still allowing visitors who use fragrances, since enforcing the policy with the general public is difficult.
Why Are Fragrance-Free Workplaces Becoming More Common?
Many people have sensitivities to fragrances or the chemicals in scented body care or cleaning products that can trigger allergy-like symptoms, including:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Mucus in the throat
- Cough
Severe reactions to fragrances may also include, but are not limited to, migraines, asthma attacks, breathing difficulties and cardiovascular and neurological problems. The increase in fragrance-free workplaces is an attempt to protect the health and wellness of sensitive individuals who may otherwise find the workplace uncomfortable or physically harmful.
How To Cut Out Fragranced Products
Fragrance-free products often have a “fragrance-free” label on them. It’s crucial to remember that “unscented” isn’t the same as fragrance-free. Unscented products can still contain masking scents that neutralize the product’s natural smell. Check the ingredients for words like “parfum” or “fragrance.” Fort Wayne drugstores offer plenty of fragrance-free alternatives to many everyday products.
Eliminate the following products from your life or workplace:
- Cologne or perfume
- Essential oils (even natural sources are considered fragrances)
- Strong-smelling lotions, deodorants or hair-care products
- Scented laundry detergents, fabric softeners or caustic cleaners
If you want to make your workplace fragrance-free, focus on clear communication and good information. Try the following:
- Send out emails or memos with the new policy and clear instructions
- Place signage in commonly visited areas
- Make time in regular meetings to discuss the new policy
- Remove air fresheners
- Replace cleaning products, dish soaps and hand soaps with fragrance-free alternatives
- Inform visitors and new employees ahead of time that you’re a fragrance-free workplace
- Have a prepared statement explaining the importance of a fragrance-free workplace in improving accessibility
It can be hard to remember new policies, so practice understanding if people forget. Gently remind them that the office is fragrance-free.
If you’re dealing with allergy-like symptoms at work, call Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today to schedule an allergy test. We can help you identify what’s contributing to your symptoms and offer expert tips to minimize your risk of a reaction.