Etiquette for Use with People Who Have Chemical Sensitivities

When you are with a person who has multiple chemical sensitivities:

Choose personal products that are fragrance-free. Be aware that there are hidden, long-lasting fragrances in detergents, fabric softeners, new clothing, deodorants, tissues, toilet paper, potpourris, scented candles, hair sprays, magazines, hand lotions, disposable diapers, and dishwashing liquids.
Use only unscented soap in restrooms, and carefully wrap and dispose of chemical air "fresheners"
Designate fragrance-free seating sections for church and community events
Designate smoking areas away from buildings so people don't have to pass through smoke when entering, or have smoke waft in through doorways or windows
Adopt a policy of using fragrance-free cleaning products
Provide adequate ventilation; clean furnace filters frequently
Make sure toxic substances are labeled, tightly sealed, and stored in a separate safe area
Post herbicide or insecticide application schedule in your newsletter. Post signs of treatment dates prominently. Use integrated pest management best practices
Avoid wearing scented personal care products in public places. Improve indoor air quality simply by not wearing fragrance. Fragrance, like second-hand smoke, affects the health of those around you
Unscented beeswax candles are often well-tolerated by people with sensitivities. Use them, as an alternative to scented or paraffin candles
Learn what an individual is sensitive/allergic to and make accommodations respectfully

For more information contact access @ uua.org.

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Last updated on Wednesday, April 20, 2011.

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