<p>Scent sensitivity Respecting the well-being of our colleagues</p><p>Manufacturers use scents to add aromas to their products and to mask the smell of other chemicals contained within those products. Products that may contain scents include personal hygiene products such as shampoos, hairspray, body sprays, deodorants, perfumes and colognes, as well as household items (air fresheners, deodorizers, candles, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and cleaning products.)</p><p>According to the Canadian Lung Association, exposure to these chemicals can trigger health problems for some individuals, including people with asthma and other respiratory illnesses, chronic heart or lung diseases, migraines, allergies, environmental illness, or multiple chemical sensitivity. </p><p>The issue with scented products is not so much the smell but the chemicals that produce the smell. A typical fragrance can contain between 100 to 350 natural and synthetic ingredients -- many of which are toxic – which turn into vapour and attach themselves to hair, clothing, and surroundings. </p><p>Scent-sensitive individuals can experience a wide variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These symptoms negatively affect their well-being, making it difficult for them to remain productive at work, and sometimes causing them to become very ill. Symptoms may include: </p><p> eye, nose, and throat irritation  headache or migraine  nausea or dizziness  inability to concentrate or anxiety  fatigue, weakness or joint pain  allergic reactions or asthma attacks</p><p>To respect scent-sensitive colleagues and to support the comfort of all employees, the best solution is simply to avoid applying scented products, and most importantly, to refrain from using them in the workplace. For more workplace tips, call LifeWorks: 1.877.207.8833 TTY: 1.877.371.9978 You can also visit www.lifeworks.com (username: -----; password: ------). </p>