Fragrance sensitivity affects one in ten students at Karhuvuori School in Kotka

Approximately one in ten students at Karhuvuori School in Kotka is affected by the use of fragrances in the school environment. Symptoms reported include headaches, shortness of breath, and dizziness, according to principal Marianne Puumalainen. Teachers have also experienced similar issues due to perfumes and fragrances used by students, with one teacher even taking sick leave as a result.

Despite the city of Kotka recommending that students and staff avoid using fragrances in school buildings, the use of such products has noticeably increased, according to Puumalainen. The problem of fragrance-related issues has been highlighted in recent workplace safety inspections in schools. Katariina Ijäks, an expert with the Finnish Skin, Allergy, and Asthma Association, noted that inquiries regarding fragrance use in schools have risen over the past year and a half. Fragrances can particularly harm individuals with asthma or migraines, alongside those who experience undiagnosed scent sensitivity. A 2016 survey indicated that approximately half a million Finns suffer from fragrance sensitivity.

Sara Simberg, a specialist from the Education Professionals’ Union (OAJ), mentioned that fragrance-related problems have been reported in some schools. According to workplace safety laws, employers must consider the impact of the work environment on employee health. Recommendations and guidelines for fragrance-free workplaces could help.

A complete ban on fragrances has not yet been discussed in Kotka’s schools, according to Vesa Toikka, head of the education department. He emphasized the need to determine whether the desired outcome could be achieved through a ban or through collective agreements involving staff, students, and parents. Puumalainen hopes that discussions at home will encourage students to refrain from using fragrances during school hours.