An accommodation option to consider would be re-assignment to a position that does not interface with patients or customers. It should be much easier to get co-workers to comply with not wearing essential oils, especially in a well-documented case. If the employee is a nurse, something like a UR or record review position might work. If it’s an admin support employee, there should be several options to keep her employed but away from the walk-ins.

 

David

 

DAVID​
COCKRUM, MD
Physician
Faith Regional Physician Services
Occupational Health
(402) 844 8300
2024 Pasewalk Avenue, Suite 2, Norfolk, NE 68701
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From: MCOH-EH [mailto:mcoh-eh-bounces+dcockrum=frhs.org@mylist.net] On Behalf Of PRATER, DEANNA
Sent: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 5:08 PM
To: mcoh-eh@mylist.net
Subject: [MCOH-EH] sensitivities to scents in the workplace

 

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I’m looking for any direction on how to manage a worker who has a sensitivity to essential oils in the workplace.  Our hospital is a scent-free facility, and we put out education to potential patients who we know may be coming into our facility.  Unfortunately in our maternity department, we have a number of patients that come in wearing essential oils, and one of our staff members has a significant reaction to this, resulting in time loss.  Any advice?

deanna.prater@bayareahospital.org  

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