Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 170; Flight Crew Type 289
Physiological - Other
No Specific Anomaly Occurred All Types
General None Reported / Taken
Company Policy; Human Factors
There seems to be an increasing problem with the smells of strong fragranced cosmetics in the workplace. According to research posted on several internet sites; approximately 10-12% of the population has a severe sensitivity to these harsh chemicals. Reactions include asthma; allergies; migraine; dizziness; lung and throat irritation; and neurological impairment in as short as 30 mins after exposure.Due to the serious safety concerns when pilot health is degraded; we need to address this issue. I am suggesting a remedy for two particular situations that have presented in the past two days.First; please reinstate the restriction for pilots prohibiting the wearing of any fragranced cosmetics in the cockpit. It is a very confined space with restricted airflow. A sensitive person could have a serious medical issue during flight. This restriction used to be in the FOM but has since been removed. Also; publishing a reminder in a newsletter would be helpful to draw attention to the change.Second; please notify all ground transportation providers of the same restriction. Many vehicles are showing up to transport pilots with multiple extreme air fresheners in vents. The driver may also be wearing fragrance which adds to the toxic load. This was an unbearable situation today which could result in a sick call due to a throbbing headache. This is totally unnecessary and compromises the bottom line profitability of the operation. It also erodes pilot health and well being which also costs money and causes needless suffering.
B777 Captain suggests that the company should institute a policy prohibiting strong scents and fragrances in the work place.