Managing sensitivity to chemicals and odours

Many workplaces have chemicals and odours that are a necessary part of the industry or work situation. Chemicals and odours can be found in cleaning products, flooring, manufacturing equipment, and as a byproduct or result of industrial, mechanical or construction works.

People sensitive to chemicals and odours may develop conditions affecting the central nervous system symptoms, respiratory or gastrointestinal systems. Symptoms commonly reported following exposure to chemicals include (not limited to); fatigue, headaches, poor memory, impaired concentration, dizziness, temperature sensitivity.

Learning to manage a sensitivity to chemicals and odours can ensure people are able to focus fully on their job or task and participate fully in their role within the workplace.

(WorkSafe Smart Move 2001)

Workplace solutions and adjustments

For people with sensitivities to chemicals and odours within the workplace, a range of strategies can be considered:

• if the known irritants can be identified, aim to avoid these by altering or changing jobs within the workplace where possible

Limit contact with chemicals, odours and fumes where possible by positioning the worker with sensitivities in a private work area, where exposure to the irritants is limited.

• sound absorption panels
• cubicle walls and doors
• partitioning

There are a variety of products that can assist people manage sensitivity to chemicals and odours:

• vapour filters and cartridges
• gloves—chemical resistant
• barrier creams
• protective eyewear

There are also a a range of alternative products that can be used in workplaces that do not have strong odours or harmful chemicals. These include:

• paints—low or no odour
• cleaning products—alternative
• carpet sealers
• carpet alternatives
• pest management

For people with allergies, personal protective equipment is available to prevent breathing in harmful dusts and airborne pollutants:

• respirator masks
• dust masks

Workplaces may also be able to support people with sensitivities to chemicals and odours by improving the quality of air in the workplace by maintaining ventilation or using:

• air conditioners and fans
• ventilation
• air purification systems
• humidifiers and vaporisers
• plants—indoor

A specialised consultant such as an Occupational Hygienist may be able to provide testing and assistance within the workplace:

• Occupational Health and Safety auditors and consultants

(Magill & Suruda 1998; WorkSafe Smart Move 2001; AESSRA (not date specified)).

Other job requirements and solutions

• Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome (environmental illness)
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Allergy
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
  

References

Allergy & Environmental Sensitivity Support and Research Association Inc (AESSRA) (no date specified), Chemical Sensitivity & Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Allergy & Environmental Sensitivity Support and Research Association Inc, Ringwood, viewed 17 August 2007, <http://mc2.vicnet.net.au/home/aessra/web/mcs.html>.

WorkSafe Smart Move 2001, Hairdressing module - Hazardous Substances, Government of Western Australia Department of Consumer and Employment Protection, Perth, viewed 17 August 2007, <http://www.worksafe.wa.gov.au/pagebin/edcnwssm0133.htm> .

Magill, M.K. & Suruda, A. 1998, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, The American Academy of Family Physicians, Vol. 58, No. 3, Kansas, viewed 17 August 2007, < http://www.aafp.org/afp/980901ap/magill.html>.