Job Accommodation for Allergies

Allergies on the job can be a real problem for employers. Certain allergic triggers that are present in the workplace can become a liability in the long run. Developing a policy for handling allergies in employees is important. In addition, when possible, removing the allergen may be necessary to accommodate an employee's allergy.

Latex

• Latex allergies can be difficult to live with and even more complicated for an employer to accommodate, particularly in a health care environment. There are several ways, however, that an employer can be proactive and protect employees with a latex allergy.

  Using non-latex gloves is one simple way to prevent an allergic reaction. These are more common in health care environments today due to the increase in this allergy. Employers should also make it a habit to clean areas regularly that are exposed to latex. Also placing a latex-allergic employee in an area with a reduced exposure to latex is important in preventing a reaction.

Foods

• When a food-allergic individual obtains employment, it is important that the employer fully understand the allergy. Food allergies, more than other allergies, can be life-threatening. Being proactive is the key to managing this allergy.

  In many cases, a policy will need to be enacted to keep the workplace safe for the food-allergic individual. A consultation with the employee to fully understand the severity of the allergy is the first step to make sure that the place of employment will be safe.

  The workplace may need to restricted from the offending food allergen. This would include sending out a memo of the restricted food, posting signs and enforcing it with consequences for violations. There should also be an emergency plan in place in case of accidental exposure.

Fragrances

• For some employees, fragrances can actually produce an allergic reaction. These reactions are not only triggered by strong-smelling colognes and perfumes, but candles can also be a culprit.

  Accommodations for this allergic condition can vary. In some cases, a complete ban may necessary to prevent an allergic reaction. This may be controversial with many employees, however, as limiting what types of scents they put on themselves outside of work can be viewed as violation of personal rights.

  Another option for this particular situation includes a better ventilation system. This would create better airflow and attempt to move offending scents out of the office more rapidly. Also, just raising awareness about the situation might encourage some to eliminate scents that make other employees ill.

Cleaning Supplies

• In some cases, the very thing that employers use to keep their employees healthy can actually be harming their health. Cleaning supplies are filled with chemicals and sometimes these trigger an allergic reaction in some people. This can be a particular problem in extremely sterile environments such as an operating room.

  This type of reaction can serious and can include asthma, as well as problems with the immune system and nervous system. Increasing ventilation is one way to accommodate this allergy. Using alternative cleaners with less harsh chemicals is another option.

Mold

• No matter how hard a place of employment works to prevent mold, moisture will inevitably cause this allergen to reappear. It is frequently found around water pipes or in areas moistened by a leaky roof, wall or plumbing. In addition, mold can emit toxic fumes.

  Once an employee determines mold is triggering an allergic reaction, it is important to take action since more than one employee may be affected.

  Cleaning the mold with bleach to kill it is the first step. Measures should also be taken to prevent the mold from returning. This may mean replacing items where the mold grows.