Learn about how to avoid Sick Building Syndrome.
Avoiding
Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome and Its Symptoms
- “Sick building syndrome” describes health problems that are linked to time spent in a particular building.
- These health problems often disappear once the person suffering them leaves the building. They also may persist for an extended period.
- Symptoms cannot be traced to a specific illness or cause.
- Common symptoms associated with sick building syndrome include: headache; ear, nose and throat irritation; fatigue; dizziness; nausea; dry cough; dry or itchy skin; and difficulty concentrating.
What Causes Sick Building Syndrome?
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Air Quality
Sick building syndrome frequently can be traced to the indoor air quality of the building, which is affected by numerous factors.
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Poor Ventilation
Inadequate ventilation means air does not circulate as well as it should through a building, resulting in indoor pollutants lingering in the air and causing symptoms.
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Natural Contaminants
Bacteria, mold, pollen, and other biological contaminants can enter a building or grow in neglected areas, creating indoor air pollution that can cause health issues.
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Chemical Contaminants
Chemical contaminants from inside the building — such as volatile organic compounds found in paint and flooring products; tobacco smoke; and byproducts from improperly vented space heaters or other sources of combustion — can cause sick building syndrome.
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Exterior Pollution
Contaminants from outside the building, including motor vehicle exhaust and exhaust from surrounding buildings, can enter a building and cause symptoms of sick building syndrome.
How Indoor Air Quality Can Be Improved
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Air Movement
Building owners can improve airflow through a building with the help of fans.
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Organic Compounds
Using paints, flooring, and cleaning products made with low amounts of volatile organic compounds can improve indoor air quality.
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HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance of HVAC systems, including replacing filters, helps keep indoor air cleaner.
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Air Cleaners
Large facilities may benefit from the installation of air cleaners to filter large quantities of multiple types of airborne pollutants.