Scent Free Education and Awareness
UBC Okanagan has implemented a voluntary Scent Free Program on campus. Look for the No Scents is Good Sense poster throughout campus promoting a healthier scent-free environment.
Scented personal products contain chemicals which can cause health problems for many people, especially those with asthma, allergies or environmental illnesses. The University Health & Safety Committee asks for your support in limiting the use of scented personal care products.
Scented products can cause sore throat, runny nose, sinus congestion, wheezing, shortness of breath, headache, mental confusion, inability to concentrate, flushing, irritability, nausea, muscle pain or migraines. Besides perfume, cologne and aftershave some products that may contain added scents are soap, lotions, deodorants, shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, make-up, sun screen, detergent, fabric softener, cleaning products, candles and air fresheners.
Most manufacturers of personal care products offer scent free alternatives. By choosing scent free personal care products we can lessen the impact the scent has on the health of others.
Dealing with a Scent Situation
Dealing with a scent situation can be a sensitive undertaking. There is a delicate balance between expressing your concern to the individual and appearing to be confrontational. If someone on campus is wearing scented personal care products you may feel awkward approaching the person with your concern. As a result you do nothing and end up suffering in silence. Many people do suffer in silence. Try these strategies when dealing with a scent situation.
For Employees/Students experiencing health effects from scented products:
- Approach the person discreetly.
- Clearly and courteously explain the benefits of adopting scent-free practices. Remember most people are unaware of the negative impact scented products have on some people.
- Direct them to the website for more information. Education is the key when discussing the situation.
- If you feel uncomfortable approaching the individual directly, speak with your supervisor/instructor.
- If you are unable to resolve your concerns by speaking with the individual and your supervisor or instructor you may contact the University Health & Safety Committee for assistance.
For Supervisors asked to deal with scent issues:
- Learn more about the Scent Free Program at UBC Okanagan.
- Approach the individual discreetly and inform the individual about the Scent Free Program. Explain to the individual that scented products can cause health issues for some people.
- Keep the individual with the sensitivity apprised of what has been done on his/her behalf.
- Continue to monitor the situation until it has been resolved.
- If you are unable to resolve the situation you may contact the University Health & Safety Committee for assistance.
For Teaching Staff:
- Attempt to maintain a scent free environment in you classrooms and labs by informing your students of the Scent Free Program (direct them to this website)
- If a student approaches you with a scent concern discreetly approach the individual(s) wearing the scent and inform the individual(s)of the scent sensitivities some of their classmates possess. Direct them to the website for more information.
- Encourage students to wear scent-free alternatives.
For Individuals who have been approached about their scented personal products:
- Do not take offence.
- Learn more about the Scent Free Program at UBC Okanagan.
- Consider switching to a scent-free alternative.
Last reviewed 
11/4/2009 9:46:56 PM
