Continue to match exposure results with your memory of the odor. With practice you can predict which and how much of the chemicals may be present. For the future, rapid synthetic chemical development is creating new and more complex odors that will be difficult to keep abreast of. Scientists are experimenting with mixing pure distinctively odored chemicals with chemicals that can mask and neutralize smells that workers might complain about. Researchers are also looking at how odors affect emotions, moods and actions.
Some employers intentionally introduce odors into the workplace to create moods.
Japanese factories, for instance, have been known to emit fragrances into the work environment to increase productivity. Copyright 2001 by Business News Publishing Co.