Sick Building Syndrome

Sick building syndrome (SBS) refers to a condition where occupants of a building experience acute health effects or discomfort that appear to be linked to time spent in the building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.

Definition and Characteristics

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines SBS as a situation where 20% or more of a building's occupants experience health symptoms such as headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory problems, without any identifiable cause.

• Symptoms are typically mild and self-limiting
• Symptoms improve or disappear when the individual leaves the building
• No specific disease or cause can be identified
• Multiple occupants experience similar symptoms

Causes and Contributing Factors

The exact causes of SBS are often unclear, but several factors have been identified as potential contributors:

• Inadequate ventilation and poor air quality
• Chemical contaminants from building materials, cleaning products, or pesticides
• Biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria, and viruses
• Physical factors like temperature, humidity, and lighting
• Poor maintenance and upkeep of the building's HVAC system
• Occupant density and crowding

Symptoms and Health Effects

Common symptoms associated with SBS include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Respiratory problems such as coughing and wheezing
• Skin rashes and itching
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Dizziness and nausea

Diagnosis and Investigation

Diagnosing SBS can be challenging due to the lack of a specific cause or identifiable illness. Investigations typically involve:

• Occupant surveys and questionnaires to identify symptoms and patterns
• Environmental assessments, including air quality monitoring and inspections for water damage or mold growth
• Review of building maintenance records and HVAC system performance
• Medical evaluations to rule out other potential causes of symptoms

Prevention and Remediation

To prevent or mitigate SBS, building owners and managers can take the following steps:

• Implement regular maintenance and upkeep of HVAC systems
• Improve ventilation and air quality through increased airflow and filtration
• Reduce chemical contaminants by using environmentally friendly cleaning products and materials
• Control moisture and prevent water damage to minimize mold growth
• Provide a comfortable indoor environment with adequate temperature, humidity, and lighting control

Conclusion

Sick building syndrome is a complex condition that can have significant impacts on occupant health and productivity. By understanding the potential causes and contributing factors, building owners and managers can take proactive steps to prevent or mitigate SBS and create a healthier indoor environment.