Toxicological studies have reported that a variety of chemicals, including acrylates and methacrylates, can cause damage to the nasal olfactory epithelium of rodents. These results prompted the search for a means by which olfactory function could be studied in our workplaces. The search led to the conclusion that the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) was suitable. In the UPSIT test olfactory function, in terms of ability to identify odors, is measured by a standardized self-administered scratch and sniff test. This device was used by the University of Pennsylvania investigators, with the collaboration of Rohm and Haas Company, to investigate possible relationships between acrylate/methacrylate exposures and employee olfactory function at the Houston plant.