{"id":1361,"date":"2025-07-07T13:30:34","date_gmt":"2025-07-07T17:30:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/guide.cophan.org\/?post_type=fiche&p=1361"},"modified":"2025-10-23T10:04:11","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T14:04:11","slug":"environmental-health","status":"publish","type":"fiche","link":"https:\/\/guide.cophan.org\/en\/thematic-fact-sheets\/environmental-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Environmental health"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n\r\n
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What is multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and how does it impact the workplace?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a recognized disability (CHRC, CHRA, 2007) that affects an individual\u2019s 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\u2019s ability to work in an environment where chemical triggers are present.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Overview of the situation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/em>, 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some specific barriers and how to address them:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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:<\/p>\n\n\n\r\n

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\r\n Diagnosis and medical support<\/a>\r\n <\/h4>\r\n\r\n
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Many people with MCS struggle to obtain a formal diagnosis, mainly due to a lack of awareness of the condition among health care professionals. This lack of knowledge may result in delays in obtaining the medical documentation necessary to justify accommodations.<\/p>\n

Employers must take a flexible and comprehensive approach, offering adaptive measures even in the absence of an immediate formal diagnosis. The video \u201cUnderstanding and Accommodating Employees with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity MCS in the Workplace<\/a>\u201d can be a valuable resource to overcome these challenges.<\/p>\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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\r\n Employment barriers <\/a>\r\n <\/h4>\r\n\r\n
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Common workplace triggers such as deodorants, cleaning products, perfumes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials can cause debilitating symptoms. These environmental conditions contribute to higher unemployment rates among people with MCS, as the inability to work in such environments without accommodations often leads to long-term unemployment and financial instability.<\/p>\n

To address these issues, it is imperative that employers take a proactive approach to minimize environmental triggers and create a healthy, inclusive and accessible workplace.<\/p>\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n\n<\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Good practices<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

Best practices for an inclusive and supportive environment:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n