How common is a Scent Free workplace, and how can we clearly define the policy?

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

I am a member of the Joint Health & Safety Committee in the company that I work for, and we are currently looking at some Air Quality complaints stemming from the overuse of Cologne and Perfumes.

There was some discussion back and forth between the members of the committee revolving around whether or not a policy like this could be clearly defined, as much of what could be defined by the policy is subjective (e.g. How much is too much, are favorable scents OK, who determines which-is-which, etc)

Some of these questions have straight forward answers. For example regardless of the pleasantness of the odor, if the workplace is scent free it is prohibited. Others are much more subjective.

Without going into too much specificity, the air quality complaints have been all put forward by an individual with a sensitivity to odors. We've gone directly to people who have had a negative impact on this employee but the issue is not resolved. When the individual in question is exposed to a strong odor, he needs to leave the area immediately and return after it has dissipated.

We cannot pursue further action in any regard until management signs off on a policy relating to the matter... but there are concerns relating to the subjective nature of the problem.

We have looked online for resources, but most of what we have found are part of the Americans with Disabilities act, and not subject to our organization as we are in Canada.

How can we create a definite policy for something that is inherently so subjective? I was hoping someone who has a similar policy might be able to come forward and offer some insight into the steps necessary in the development of a policy.