What To Avoid

• Even mild-scented products can cause irritation, so it is best to avoid all scented products. Fragrance is added to a wide range of body care products including perfume, cologne, lotion, deodorants, shampoo, conditioner and hairspray. Deodorizing agents such as air fresheners and candles are highly scented; air fresheners are especially problematic because they are sprayed directly into the air within the workplace. The cleaning closet is likely full of scented products, including floor cleaner, window cleaner, bathroom cleaner, multi-surface cleaner, hand soap and even some garbage bags. Many laundry detergents are also scented, which may be irritating for a co-worker in a neighboring cubicle.
  
  

Educate Employees

• If you explain the potential hazards of scent exposure, it is likely that many employees will stop using scented products out of courtesy for their co-workers. Provide each employee with information about the associated health problems and include a list of the products that cause irritation. You could distribute a pamphlet, newsletter or hold an office meeting to discuss the benefits of a scent-free workplace. It may be helpful to give each employee a questionnaire so that management can gauge how many employees are bothered by scent. The questionnaire may ask how often scents bother the employee and what his typical symptoms are. You might also ask what types of scented products each employee uses.
  
  

Draft A Policy

• Once the major scent products and symptoms are identified, you can draft a policy tailored to the specific needs of the workplace. Determine whether you will forbid all scented products or only cologne and perfume. Some workplaces choose to strictly forbid all scented products, while others suggest that employees refrain from using them. Decide on your company's approach to a scent-free workplace and determine the penalties for offenders. Write the policy on paper and distribute to all employees to review. It may be helpful to hold a meeting during which employees can ask questions regarding the policy. Once the policy has been established, post it throughout the workplace, such as in the boardroom, break room or other shared spaces.
  
  

Enforcement

• If you want to ensure a scent-free workplace, you must discipline employees who violate the established scent policy. The disciplinary action is entirely up to management, but may include a written or verbal warning. Take opportunities to remind employees of the policy during business meetings and in each company newsletter. If the policy is only mentioned once, employees may assume it isn't serious. Survey employees with scent sensitivities periodically to determine the scent-free workplace policy's effectiveness. If it seems as though an entirely scent-free workplace may be unattainable, you can designate specific areas as scent-free zones.