What is multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and how does it impact the workplace?

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a recognized disability (CHRC, CHRA, 2007) that affects an individual’s ability to tolerate exposure to chemicals that most people find harmless. Common triggers include perfumes, personal care products, cleaning and laundry agents, building materials and office supplies. People with MCS can experience a wide range of symptoms, including breathing problems, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, dizziness, headaches and skin irritation. These manifestations can seriously compromise an individual’s ability to work in an environment where chemical triggers are present.

Overview of the situation

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a common condition: Statistics Canada reports that more than 1.13 million people have been diagnosed, 72% of whom are women, with nearly 50% of those affected over the age of 55 (CCHS 2020).

In light of these statistics, it is crucial that workplaces adapt to these realities, not only to guarantee equal access to employment opportunities, but also to meet legal obligations. Under the Canadian Human Rights Act, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities, including those with MCS, to allow them to work in an environment free from harmful chemical triggers.

Some specific barriers and how to address them:

Employees with MCS face unique challenges in their workplace due to their increased sensitivity. In the absence of adapted facilities, their symptoms may affect their ability to perform tasks and maintain employment. Key barriers include:

Good practices

The purpose of this sheet is to assist employers in adopting comprehensive policies and practices that take into account the needs of people with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). These initiatives promote a healthy work environment and help improve air quality inside buildings. Key measures include implementing a scent-free policy, reducing exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and using products that are less toxic for cleaning, maintenance and renovations.

A healthier workplace benefits not only people with MCS but also all employees by increasing productivity, morale and overall well-being.

Best practices for an inclusive and supportive environment:

  • Developing and enforcing a scent-free policy.
  • Ensuring air quality through proper ventilation and use of environmentally friendly products.
  • Educating employees and management on MCS and how to support those affected.
  • Ensuring flexibility in working conditions to meet the individual needs of people with MCS.

Importance of environmental health in the workplace

Maintaining environmental health in the workplace is vital for several reasons: it improves employee well-being, optimizes productivity and ensures compliance with legal obligations. Clean air and reduced chemical irritants not only benefit people with MCS, but all employees.

Some key reasons why prioritizing environmental health is critical:

Standards and obligations

Accommodations in the workplace

In summary :

By implementing a scent-free policy and ensuring optimal air quality and providing flexible work arrangements, workplaces can be a safe and inclusive environment for people living with MCS. These measures not only comply with legal obligations, but also contribute to the well-being and productivity of all employees.

Available resources

  1. Canadian Human Rights Commission. Policy on environmental sensitivities. Government of Canada. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  2. Canadian Human Rights Commission. Environmental sensitivity and scent-free policies. Government of Canada. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  3. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Scent-free policies. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  4. Singh A, Syal M, Grady SC, Korkmaz S. Effects of Green Buildings on Employee Health and Productivity. Am J Public Health. 2010;100(9):1665-1668. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2009.180687
  5. MacNaughton P, Pegues J, Satish U, Santanam S, Spengler J, Allen J. Economic, Environmental and Health Implications of Enhanced Ventilation in Office Buildings. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2015;12(11):14709-14722. doi:10.3390/ijerph121114709
  6. Palacios Temprano J, Eichholtz P, Willeboordse M, Kok N. Indoor Environmental Quality and Learning Outcomes: Protocol on Large-Scale Sensor Deployment in Schools. BMJ Open. 2020;10(3). doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031233
  7. Palacios J, Eichholtz P, Kok N. Moving to Productivity: The Benefits of Healthy Buildings. PLoS One. 2020;15(8). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0236029
  8. MacNaughton P, Satish U, Laurent JGC, et al. The Impact of Working in a Green Certified Building on Cognitive Function and Health. Built Environ. 2017;114:178-186. doi:10.1016/j.buildenv.2016.11.041
  9. Eco-Living Guide.
  10. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Perfluorocarbons (PFC). Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  11. ASEQ-EHAQ. How to ask for accommodation. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  12. ASEQ-EHAQ. First Aid Kit. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  13. ASEQ-EHAQ. Design, Implement, and Monitor Scent/Fragrance-Free Policies. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  14. EHAC-ASEC. At work: Obtaining an accommodation. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  15. ASEQ-EHAQ How to enforce a scent/fragrance-free policy within the workplace. Last accessed September 6, 2024.
  16. ASEQ-EHAQ. Workplace Accommodation – Videos. Last accessed October 9, 2024.

Fact sheet prepared in collaboration with Rohini Peris, President and CEO, with feedback from Michel Gaudet, Vice-President and Executive Director of ASEQ-ASEC.

A more detailed version of this guide can be found at: https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/workplace-accommodation/.

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