Sick Building Syndrome

Sick Building Syndrome refers to a condition in which occupants of a building experience acute health effects and discomfort that appear to be linked to time spent in the building, yet no specific illness or cause can be identified. The term emerged in the 1970s when office workers began reporting clusters of symptoms that improved when they left their workplace. The World Health Organization recognized Sick Building Syndrome as a distinct phenomenon in 1986, estimating that up to thirty percent of new and remodeled buildings worldwide may be associated with these complaints.

Common symptoms reported by building occupants include headaches, eye irritation, nose and throat discomfort, dry cough, dry or itchy skin, dizziness, nausea, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and sensitivity to odors. These symptoms typically diminish or disappear when individuals leave the building. The complaints may affect a single person, specific groups within a building, or the majority of occupants. Symptoms tend to increase in severity with the amount of time people spend in the building.

Multiple factors may contribute to Sick Building Syndrome, though pinpointing exact causes remains challenging. Indoor air quality issues top the list of suspected contributors. Inadequate ventilation accounts for many cases, particularly in buildings where fresh air exchange rates fall below recommended standards. Chemical contaminants from indoor sources such as adhesives, carpeting, upholstery, manufactured wood products, copy machines, pesticides, and cleaning agents can accumulate when ventilation is poor. Outdoor pollutants like vehicle exhaust can also enter buildings through poorly located air intake vents or windows.

Biological contaminants present another significant concern. Pollen, bacteria, mold, and viruses can breed in stagnant water that accumulates in ducts, humidifiers, and drain pans. These microorganisms may then circulate through building ventilation systems. Temperature and humidity extremes also play roles, as do inadequate lighting and excessive noise levels. Some research suggests that psychological and social factors in workplace environments may amplify symptoms or affect how occupants perceive their indoor environment.

Investigating Sick Building Syndrome typically requires a systematic approach. Building managers and health professionals often conduct walk-through inspections, interview occupants about symptoms and work patterns, review building maintenance records, and measure ventilation rates and air quality parameters. Solutions frequently involve improving ventilation systems, eliminating or reducing pollutant sources, maintaining heating and cooling equipment, replacing water-stained ceiling tiles and carpets, and ensuring that ventilation systems operate during occupied hours.

Prevention strategies emphasize proper building design and maintenance. Selecting low-emission building materials and furnishings, ensuring adequate outdoor air exchange, controlling moisture to prevent mold growth, and scheduling maintenance activities when buildings are unoccupied can reduce risks. Regular cleaning of air ducts and replacement of filters also prove beneficial. Building codes and standards continue to evolve to address indoor air quality concerns more effectively.

For individuals experiencing symptoms, documenting when and where complaints occur helps establish patterns. Reporting concerns to building managers or occupational health professionals initiates the investigation process. While Sick Building Syndrome symptoms are real and can significantly affect quality of life and productivity, they generally resolve without long-term health consequences once the underlying building-related issues are addressed.