Materiały źródłowe

• #1 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur. […] The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: Chemical contaminants, Biological contaminants, Inadequate ventilation, Electromagnetic radiation, Psychological factors, Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS.

• #2

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  The sick building syndrome comprises of various nonspecific symptoms that occur in the occupants of a building. This feeling of ill health increases sickness absenteeism and causes a decrease in productivity of the workers. As this syndrome is increasingly becoming a major occupational hazard, the cause, management and prevention of this condition have been discussed in this article. […] The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur.

• #3 Sick Building Syndrome: Testing, Treatment, and Prevention

  https://www.healthline.com/health/sick-building-syndrome

  The symptoms of sick building syndrome most often get better once you leave the hazardous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve once youve either eliminated your exposure, or when hazards inside the building are removed. In some cases, long-term exposure to poor indoor air quality can lead to lung diseases, such as asthma.

• #4 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur. […] The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: Chemical contaminants, Biological contaminants, Inadequate ventilation, Electromagnetic radiation, Psychological factors, Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS.

• #5 Sick Building Syndrome | ServiceMaster Clean

  https://www.servicemasterclean.com/clean-blog/office-cleaning/sick-building-syndrome-is-your-office-at-risk-/

  Sick building syndrome is when folks experience health or discomfort issues tied to their time in a building. […] According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), sick building syndrome is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. […] Some of the causes of SBS include inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor or outdoor sources, and biological contaminants, including mold and bacteria. […] SBS can reduce work efficiency and even increase absenteeism.

• #6

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  The sick building syndrome comprises of various nonspecific symptoms that occur in the occupants of a building. This feeling of ill health increases sickness absenteeism and causes a decrease in productivity of the workers. As this syndrome is increasingly becoming a major occupational hazard, the cause, management and prevention of this condition have been discussed in this article. […] The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur.

• #7 Sick building syndrome (SBS) | Britannica

  https://www.britannica.com/science/sick-building-syndrome

  sick building syndrome (SBS), term applied to a situation in which some or all the people occupying a building (usually working or living in it) experience non-specific health effects such as headache; dizziness; nausea; irritated eyes, nose, or throat; dry cough; or skin irritation. […] These effects may be localized to a part of the building or be present throughout and are usually assumed to be caused by poor indoor air quality (IAQ). […] SBS was first identified in the 1970s, and a 1984 report by the World Health Organization suggested that up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings may have problems with IAQ sufficient to cause health symptoms. Inadequate building ventilation is the most common cause; the appearance of SBS in the mid-1970s has often been attributed to decreased ventilation standards for commercial buildings to increase energy efficiency, following the Arab oil embargo of 1973. Chemical contaminants are also potential contributors to SBS; these include volatile organic compounds emitted by carpeting, upholstery, cleaning agents, and other sources and combustion products including particulate matter and carbon monoxide produced from heating devices such as fireplaces and stoves. Biological contaminants such as molds, pollen, viruses, bacteria, and animal droppings may also contribute to SBS.

• #8 Sick Building Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Risks, Treatment and More

  https://www.medicinenet.com/sick_building_syndrome/article.htm

  It is difficult to prevent a syndrome if its cause(s), diagnostic tests, treatments, and existence are not clear to a large segment of doctors. However, people may be able to prevent some of their nonspecific symptoms by working with their doctors to treat symptoms. […] The EPA cites World Health Organization (WHO) statistics that indicate as many as 30% of all buildings worldwide that are new or refurbished have air-quality problems. In contrast to sick building syndrome, these problems are identifiable, and most can be remedied by such methods as using HEPA filters to reduce or eliminate most airborne particles, avoiding building air intakes located near sources of vehicle exhaust fumes or other irritants, and avoiding fungal and bacterial contamination of air conditioning or other air circulating methods.

• #9 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building. […] The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes. The complainants may require prolonged recovery time after leaving the building.

• #10

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Noise can contribute to SBS, but in differing ways. […] Lighting has the potential to affect health and comfort. […] Hygrothermal factors include temperature, humidity and air movement, all of which have an effect on the comfort of building occupants. […] Job stress and dissatisfaction are probably more important causes of symptoms than physical and chemical factors in the indoor environment. […] The prevalence of symptoms appears to be highest among clerical staff, with their more routine work, than among professional staff. […] One reason for the lack of an accurate cause or cure for SBS is that the majority of investigations into SBS only look at part of the problem. […] There is evidence that, although SBS does not cause serious damage to health, it does result in potentially problematic consequences.

• #11 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building. […] The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes. The complainants may require prolonged recovery time after leaving the building.

• #12 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #13 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building. […] The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes. The complainants may require prolonged recovery time after leaving the building.

• #14 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #15 Building-related symptoms and issues | Linking building to health

  https://www.swegonairacademy.com/health-well-being-and-productivity/impact-on-health-and-well-being/building-related-symptoms-and-issues/

  The symptoms are an expression of a well-defined illness with a specific cause. […] Sick building syndrome is used as a term to refer to symptoms of acute health and/or comfort effects for which no specific cause can be found but that can be attributed to time spent in a particular building. […] The concept of SBS was defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1983 as: 'a collection of nonspecific symptoms including eyes, nose and throat irritation, mental fatigue, headaches, nausea, dizziness and skin irritation, that seem to be associated with occupancy of certain workplaces’. […] Symptoms and illnesses related or attributed to indoor environments are common. […] Building-related symptoms can have a substantial impact on health.

• #16

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  This paper aims to discuss the causes, consequences and means of ameliorating sick building syndrome (SBS). […] The pattern of occurrence of the symptoms that is, during the working day and week rules out the possibility of the problem being that of an infection. It is important to understand that a consideration of the physical environment should also be given attention. In all probability there is a different combination of causes in different buildings (Morris and Dennis, 1995). […] Many possible causes of SBS have been suggested, with the majority of explanations focusing on air quality within the building and the systems that are used to ventilate the building. Other factors that have been implicated are noise, artificial lighting, control by occupants, cleaning of the workplace, stress and psychological effects (among others).

• #17

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  This paper aims to discuss the causes, consequences and means of ameliorating sick building syndrome (SBS). […] The pattern of occurrence of the symptoms that is, during the working day and week rules out the possibility of the problem being that of an infection. It is important to understand that a consideration of the physical environment should also be given attention. In all probability there is a different combination of causes in different buildings (Morris and Dennis, 1995). […] Many possible causes of SBS have been suggested, with the majority of explanations focusing on air quality within the building and the systems that are used to ventilate the building. Other factors that have been implicated are noise, artificial lighting, control by occupants, cleaning of the workplace, stress and psychological effects (among others).

• #18 Sick building syndrome – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sick_building_syndrome

  Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition in which people develop symptoms of illness or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside. […] Attempts have been made to connect sick building syndrome to various causes, such as contaminants produced by outgassing of some building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOC), improper exhaust ventilation of ozone, light industrial chemicals used within, and insufficient fresh-air intake or air filtration. […] Sick building syndrome has also been attributed to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, an attribution about which there are inconsistent findings. […] Certain VOCs, considered toxic chemical contaminants to humans, are used as adhesives in many common building construction products.

• #19 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  Sick building syndrome is a condition that occurs when a number of a building’s occupants have a constellation of nonspecific symptoms without a specific identifiable cause, including nausea; irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; mental fatigue; headaches; skin irritation; and dizziness. […] These symptoms should be temporally related to being in the building, resolve when the person is not in the building, and be found in a number of individuals within the building. […] There are many theories as to what causes sick building syndrome. Commonly cited causes are inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor sources, and chemical contaminants from outdoor sources. […] Inadequate ventilation is one the most often cited reasons. […] Common chemical contaminants inside the building are found in paint, adhesives, carpeting, cleaning agents, and upholstered furniture. These chemicals can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• #20

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: […] 1. Chemical contaminants […] 1.1. From outdoor sources: Contaminants from outside like pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust, plumbing vents and building exhausts (bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located air intake vents, windows and other openings. Combustion byproducts can enter a building from a nearby garage. Radon, formaldehyde, asbestos, dust and lead paint can enter through poorly located air intake vents and other openings. […] 1.2. From indoor sources: The most common contaminant of indoor air includes the volatile organic compounds (VOC). The main sources of VOC are adhesives, upholstery, carpeting, copy machines, manufactured wood products, pesticides, cleaning agents, etc. Environmental tobacco smoke, respirable particulate matter, combustion byproducts from stove, fireplace and unvented space heater also increase the chemical contamination. Synthetic fragrances in personal care products or in cleaning and maintenance products also contribute to the contamination.

• #21

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: […] 1. Chemical contaminants […] 1.1. From outdoor sources: Contaminants from outside like pollutants from motor vehicle exhaust, plumbing vents and building exhausts (bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located air intake vents, windows and other openings. Combustion byproducts can enter a building from a nearby garage. Radon, formaldehyde, asbestos, dust and lead paint can enter through poorly located air intake vents and other openings. […] 1.2. From indoor sources: The most common contaminant of indoor air includes the volatile organic compounds (VOC). The main sources of VOC are adhesives, upholstery, carpeting, copy machines, manufactured wood products, pesticides, cleaning agents, etc. Environmental tobacco smoke, respirable particulate matter, combustion byproducts from stove, fireplace and unvented space heater also increase the chemical contamination. Synthetic fragrances in personal care products or in cleaning and maintenance products also contribute to the contamination.

• #22 Sick Building Syndrome Causes | IQAir

  https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/sick-building-syndrome-and-airborne-contaminants?srsltid=AfmBOoq1Xxaz_-zlHZLiJewKe5wwVVqWLhNPFt489dN6kPLBtTulfYRV

  The most common indoor sources of chemical contaminants are cleaning products and pesticides, which can release potentially dangerous chemicals like VOCs. […] Because the variables are so vast, Sick Building Syndrome can be extremely difficult to diagnose. […] All of these symptoms can be related to indoor air quality. Building managers and facilities managers should learn to recognize the potential sources and symptoms of sick building syndrome and be ready to take corrective action quickly when needed.

• #23 Sick building syndrome – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sick_building_syndrome

  Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition in which people develop symptoms of illness or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside. […] Attempts have been made to connect sick building syndrome to various causes, such as contaminants produced by outgassing of some building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOC), improper exhaust ventilation of ozone, light industrial chemicals used within, and insufficient fresh-air intake or air filtration. […] Sick building syndrome has also been attributed to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, an attribution about which there are inconsistent findings. […] Certain VOCs, considered toxic chemical contaminants to humans, are used as adhesives in many common building construction products.

• #24 Sick Building Syndrome – Maine Indoor Air Quality Council

  https://maineindoorair.org/sick-building-syndrome/

  The term sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. […] Inadequate ventilation, which may also occur if heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems do not effectively distribute air to people in the building, is thought to be an important factor in SBS. […] Research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known carcinogens. […] Physical symptoms related to biological contamination include cough, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion.

• #25

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #26

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #27 Sick Building Syndrome Causes | IQAir

  https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/sick-building-syndrome-and-airborne-contaminants?srsltid=AfmBOoq1Xxaz_-zlHZLiJewKe5wwVVqWLhNPFt489dN6kPLBtTulfYRV

  When building occupants are becoming ill from their environment but the exact cause is unknown, its called Sick Building Syndrome. […] Airborne contaminants are usually at the root of Sick Building Syndrome, although the specific cause of the problem may not initially be known. […] Biological contaminants are often the result of excessive moisture or high humidity. These conditions produce an ideal breeding ground for the growth and reproduction of living organisms like bacteria and mold. […] During the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020, tiny airborne aerosols containing infectious SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus particles were found to be the primary mode of transmission for the deadly COVID-19 disease. […] Due to their small size, infectious aerosols can stay airborne for hours, increasing the risk of airborne infection especially in buildings with poor ventilation or low air exchange rates.

• #28

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #29

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #30 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  Sick building syndrome is a condition that occurs when a number of a building’s occupants have a constellation of nonspecific symptoms without a specific identifiable cause, including nausea; irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; mental fatigue; headaches; skin irritation; and dizziness. […] These symptoms should be temporally related to being in the building, resolve when the person is not in the building, and be found in a number of individuals within the building. […] There are many theories as to what causes sick building syndrome. Commonly cited causes are inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor sources, and chemical contaminants from outdoor sources. […] Inadequate ventilation is one the most often cited reasons. […] Common chemical contaminants inside the building are found in paint, adhesives, carpeting, cleaning agents, and upholstered furniture. These chemicals can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• #31

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #32 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  During the first energy crisis in the 1970s, builders and building owners took steps to reduce energy consumption in office buildings. Measures included increased insulation, building wraps, weatherstripping doors, and using insulated double- and triple-pane windows, among others. In many cases, buildings were erected or renovated to include windows that couldn’t open, to minimize loss of heated or cooled air. The result: Some modern buildings feel as if they are airtight. […] Many paints, carpet fibers, furniture, and even wallboard off-gas noxious fumes, sometimes for years after installation. These products may emit formaldehyde, acetic acid, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemicals. Modern office equipment such as copiers and electrostatic air cleaners add to the problem by adding ozone to the mix. Mold or mildew from damp conditions also create air quality problems. Manufacturing processes and material-handling equipment may add hydrocarbons or smog, and many chemical cleaning agents give off harmful vapors. The result is a chemical stew in the air that makes people ill with sick building syndrome.

• #33

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #34

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #35 Sick Building Syndrome and Indoor Air Quality – IAQ.Works

  https://iaq.works/source-control/sick-building-syndrome-and-indoor-air-quality/

  Viruses, bacteria, mold, pollen, insect and bird droppings are considered biological contaminants. […] Poor ventilation is the cause of most indoor air quality issues. […] If chemical or biological contaminants are not properly removed or contained, utilizing mechanical ventilation can further exacerbate the issue. […] Source control aims to reduce or eliminate the cause of indoor air pollutants in the first place. […] Proper filtration will resolve two of the most common causes of sick building syndrome. […] While sick building syndrome is incredibly serious, it can be prevented and reversed.

• #36 4 Ways to Combat Building-Related Illness and Sick Building Syndrome

  https://www.hepacart.com/blog/4-ways-to-combat-building-related-illness-and-sick-building-syndrome

  The Nation Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) studied 446 buildings with poor air quality and determined that 52% of the problems were due to inadequate ventilation. […] Finally, far-UV pathogen destruction may be deployed in large scale by adding Far-UV Sterilray lamps to building HVAC systems as an effective way to eliminate circulating mold spores or other infectious microorganisms.

• #37 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building. […] The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes. The complainants may require prolonged recovery time after leaving the building.

• #38

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Mechanical ventilation of buildings differs from natural ventilation in a number of ways: […] Evidence for a correlation between ventilation rate and SBS symptoms is at best patchy. Generally, air-conditioned buildings have higher rates of symptoms than naturally ventilated buildings. […] There is fairly strong evidence that there is a correlation between temperatures at and above 23C and the prevalence of symptoms. […] The subject of indoor air quality (IAQ) is far too in-depth to be covered in detail here and therefore a brief discussion of IAP will be given. […] Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), for example formaldehyde, are released by a large number of materials and processes in buildings and by the occupants, often reaching moderately high levels. […] It is clear that there are many combinations of sources of pollutants, and in addition, the sources may not be independent. The potential range of pollutants in the office environment is therefore enormous.

• #39

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Mechanical ventilation of buildings differs from natural ventilation in a number of ways: […] Evidence for a correlation between ventilation rate and SBS symptoms is at best patchy. Generally, air-conditioned buildings have higher rates of symptoms than naturally ventilated buildings. […] There is fairly strong evidence that there is a correlation between temperatures at and above 23C and the prevalence of symptoms. […] The subject of indoor air quality (IAQ) is far too in-depth to be covered in detail here and therefore a brief discussion of IAP will be given. […] Volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), for example formaldehyde, are released by a large number of materials and processes in buildings and by the occupants, often reaching moderately high levels. […] It is clear that there are many combinations of sources of pollutants, and in addition, the sources may not be independent. The potential range of pollutants in the office environment is therefore enormous.

• #40 An Update on Sick Building Syndrome

  https://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/701739_6

  There are a number of well established environmental risk factors for SBS described in previous review articles,[3-5] and recent research has only added limited new knowledge in this field. […] Room temperature is related to SBS and at temperatures above 22C increased mucosal irritation and general symptoms such as headache and tiredness may occur in temperate climate. […] Low relative air humidity is related to ocular and upper respiratory symptoms and dermal symptoms as demonstrated in experimental intervention studies. […] Building ventilation can be measured either as CO2 levels, personal outdoor air flow or air exchange rate. […] There are a large number of mainly cross-sectional studies indicating an association between reported or observed building dampness and indoor moulds and a 50-100% increase of SBS.[22]

• #41

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #42 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #43

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #44 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #45

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #46 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #47

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Noise can contribute to SBS, but in differing ways. […] Lighting has the potential to affect health and comfort. […] Hygrothermal factors include temperature, humidity and air movement, all of which have an effect on the comfort of building occupants. […] Job stress and dissatisfaction are probably more important causes of symptoms than physical and chemical factors in the indoor environment. […] The prevalence of symptoms appears to be highest among clerical staff, with their more routine work, than among professional staff. […] One reason for the lack of an accurate cause or cure for SBS is that the majority of investigations into SBS only look at part of the problem. […] There is evidence that, although SBS does not cause serious damage to health, it does result in potentially problematic consequences.

• #48

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Noise can contribute to SBS, but in differing ways. […] Lighting has the potential to affect health and comfort. […] Hygrothermal factors include temperature, humidity and air movement, all of which have an effect on the comfort of building occupants. […] Job stress and dissatisfaction are probably more important causes of symptoms than physical and chemical factors in the indoor environment. […] The prevalence of symptoms appears to be highest among clerical staff, with their more routine work, than among professional staff. […] One reason for the lack of an accurate cause or cure for SBS is that the majority of investigations into SBS only look at part of the problem. […] There is evidence that, although SBS does not cause serious damage to health, it does result in potentially problematic consequences.

• #49 Sick Building Syndrome

  https://iloencyclopaedia.org/part-i-47946/systematic-conditions/item/493-sick-building-syndrome

  Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for eye symptoms. […] Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for nasal symptoms. […] Neuropsychological tests have been used to document decreased performance on standardized tests, both as a function of controlled exposure and as a function of the presence of symptoms. […] In all studies where it has been examined, “work stress” was clearly associated with SBS symptoms. Workers’ perceptions of job pressures, task conflicts, and non-work stressors such as spousal or parental demands may clearly lead to the subjective experience of “stronger” irritation as a function of illness behaviour.

• #50 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur. […] The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: Chemical contaminants, Biological contaminants, Inadequate ventilation, Electromagnetic radiation, Psychological factors, Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS.

• #51

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #52 Sick Building Syndrome – Maine Indoor Air Quality Council

  https://maineindoorair.org/sick-building-syndrome/

  These elements may act in combination, and may supplement other complaints such as inadequate temperature, humidity, or lighting. […] The best approach is to investigate the entire building. […] The initial walkthrough should allow the investigator to develop some possible explanations for the complaint. […] Although air sampling for contaminants might seem to be the logical response to occupant complaints, it seldom provides information about possible causes. […] Solutions to sick building syndrome usually include combinations of the following: […] Pollutant source removal or modification is an effective approach to resolving an IAQ problem when sources are known, and control is feasible. […] Increasing ventilation rates and air distribution often can be a cost-effective means of reducing indoor pollutant levels. […] Air cleaning can be a useful adjunct to source control and ventilation but has certain limitations. […] Education and communication are important elements in both remedial and preventive indoor air quality management programs.

• #53 Sick Building Syndrome

  https://iloencyclopaedia.org/part-i-47946/systematic-conditions/item/493-sick-building-syndrome

  Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a term used to describe office worker discomfort and medical symptoms that are related to building characteristics, to pollutant exposures and to work organization, and that are mediated through personal risk factors. […] SBS should be simultaneously viewed from and informed by three disparate perspectives. For health professionals, the view is from the perspective of medicine and the health sciences as they define symptoms related to indoor work and their associated pathophysiological mechanisms. The second perspective is that of engineering, including design, commissioning, operations, maintenance and exposure assessment for specific pollutants. The third perspective includes the organizational, social and psychological aspects of work. […] A number of potential mechanisms and objective measures to explain and examine symptoms within specific organ systems have been identified. None of these has a high predictive value for the presence of disease, and they are therefore not suitable for clinical diagnostic use. They are useful in field research and epidemiological investigations. For many of these it is unclear whether they should be regarded as mechanisms, as markers of effect, or as measures of susceptibility.

• #54 Sick Building Syndrome

  https://iloencyclopaedia.org/part-i-47946/systematic-conditions/item/493-sick-building-syndrome

  Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for eye symptoms. […] Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for nasal symptoms. […] Neuropsychological tests have been used to document decreased performance on standardized tests, both as a function of controlled exposure and as a function of the presence of symptoms. […] In all studies where it has been examined, “work stress” was clearly associated with SBS symptoms. Workers’ perceptions of job pressures, task conflicts, and non-work stressors such as spousal or parental demands may clearly lead to the subjective experience of “stronger” irritation as a function of illness behaviour.

• #55 Sick Building Syndrome

  https://iloencyclopaedia.org/part-i-47946/systematic-conditions/item/493-sick-building-syndrome

  Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for eye symptoms. […] Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for nasal symptoms. […] Neuropsychological tests have been used to document decreased performance on standardized tests, both as a function of controlled exposure and as a function of the presence of symptoms. […] In all studies where it has been examined, “work stress” was clearly associated with SBS symptoms. Workers’ perceptions of job pressures, task conflicts, and non-work stressors such as spousal or parental demands may clearly lead to the subjective experience of “stronger” irritation as a function of illness behaviour.

• #56 Pathophysiology of sick building syndrome | JAA

  https://www.dovepress.com/analysis-of-cytokine-production-profiles-of-local-and-systemic-lymphoc-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JAA

  We have previously studied clinical and allergological aspects of sick building syndrome (SBS) cases with ocular disorders and found that SBS is suggested to be partially induced by an allergic response. […] These results suggest that SBS may be a kind of allergic disorder and that IL-4 plays a role in the development of allergic disorders in SBS ocular lesions. […] It has been revealed that the clinical severity of SBS correlated significantly with the percentage of IL-4-producing T cells in the conjunctiva, whereas the percentage of IFN–producing conjunctival T cells did not correlate with clinical score in this study. […] However, further evaluation is necessary regarding the systemic allergological aspects of SBS.

• #57 Pathophysiology of sick building syndrome | JAA

  https://www.dovepress.com/analysis-of-cytokine-production-profiles-of-local-and-systemic-lymphoc-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JAA

  We have previously studied clinical and allergological aspects of sick building syndrome (SBS) cases with ocular disorders and found that SBS is suggested to be partially induced by an allergic response. […] These results suggest that SBS may be a kind of allergic disorder and that IL-4 plays a role in the development of allergic disorders in SBS ocular lesions. […] It has been revealed that the clinical severity of SBS correlated significantly with the percentage of IL-4-producing T cells in the conjunctiva, whereas the percentage of IFN–producing conjunctival T cells did not correlate with clinical score in this study. […] However, further evaluation is necessary regarding the systemic allergological aspects of SBS.

• #58 Sick Building Syndrome

  https://iloencyclopaedia.org/part-i-47946/systematic-conditions/item/493-sick-building-syndrome

  Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for eye symptoms. […] Both allergic and irritant mechanisms have been proposed as explanations for nasal symptoms. […] Neuropsychological tests have been used to document decreased performance on standardized tests, both as a function of controlled exposure and as a function of the presence of symptoms. […] In all studies where it has been examined, “work stress” was clearly associated with SBS symptoms. Workers’ perceptions of job pressures, task conflicts, and non-work stressors such as spousal or parental demands may clearly lead to the subjective experience of “stronger” irritation as a function of illness behaviour.

• #59 What Is Sick Building Syndrome And How To Avoid It? | Disruptive Technologies

  https://www.disruptive-technologies.com/explore/what-is-sick-building-syndrome-and-how-to-avoid-it

  High levels of indoor CO2 concentrations impact cognitive performance and have been associated with SBS. […] Even in modern, energy-efficient buildings, CO2 can be elevated to levels that are harmful to the health and well-being of their tenants. High levels of CO2 can lead to SBS symptoms, such as headaches and nausea, so its imperative that a building has ways to detect and reduce high concentrations of CO2 before they reach dangerous levels.

• #60 The potential risk of sick building syndrome of the emergency department areas in a medical center in Taiwan – Chen – Health Technology

  https://ht.amegroups.org/article/view/5005/html

  Previous studies have shown that architectural design was significantly associated with some symptoms, meaning that people feel uncomfortable in an environmentally poor building, a phenomenon known as sick building syndrome (SBS). […] Symptoms of SBS include dizziness, headache, fatigue, dry throat, stinging eyes, wheezing, dizziness, nasal sensitivity, sneezing, nasal congestion, inability to concentrate, nausea, upper respiratory mucosal irritation, etc. […] Therefore, if the offices concentration of CO2 is too high, the employees work efficiency will be significantly reduced. […] The ventilation of outdoor airflow and filtration of particles of air conditioning systems should be well-designed since the initial construction of ER building to avoid SBS.

• #61 An update on sick building syndrome – PubMed

  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19532093/

  Purpose of review: The aim is to describe recent insight into risk factors for symptoms included in the sick building syndrome (SBS) and to give an insight into preventive work to reduce SBS. […] Recent findings: New studies have added evidence for the role of personality traits and psychosocial work environment, reactive chemistry and the inflammatory properties of indoor particles for SBS. Field studies using physiological methods and measurements of oxidative stress can lead to better understanding of the cause of SBS. […] Summary: SBS is related to both personal and environmental risk factors. In the office environment, SBS may have important economical implications. More focus is needed on the indoor environment in schools and day care centres, hospitals and nursing homes for elderly. Improvements of the home environment may be the most cost-effective way to reduce the burden of indoor exposure. The link between indoor and outdoor air pollution should not be neglected, and the role of energy saving and climate changes will be an important future issue.

• #62 An update on sick building syndrome – PubMed

  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19532093/

  Purpose of review: The aim is to describe recent insight into risk factors for symptoms included in the sick building syndrome (SBS) and to give an insight into preventive work to reduce SBS. […] Recent findings: New studies have added evidence for the role of personality traits and psychosocial work environment, reactive chemistry and the inflammatory properties of indoor particles for SBS. Field studies using physiological methods and measurements of oxidative stress can lead to better understanding of the cause of SBS. […] Summary: SBS is related to both personal and environmental risk factors. In the office environment, SBS may have important economical implications. More focus is needed on the indoor environment in schools and day care centres, hospitals and nursing homes for elderly. Improvements of the home environment may be the most cost-effective way to reduce the burden of indoor exposure. The link between indoor and outdoor air pollution should not be neglected, and the role of energy saving and climate changes will be an important future issue.

• #63 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

  https://www.healthday.com/a-to-z-health/general-health/sick-building-syndrome-what-it-is-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment

  Sick building syndrome is a term for situations in which people in a building experience health issues that seem to be linked to time spent there, though no specific illness or cause can be pinpointed, according to the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. […] Inadequate ventilation is a significant contributor to SBS as it compromises indoor air quality, according to the County of Los Angeles Public Health Department. […] Individuals affected by SBS typically experience a range of nonspecific symptoms, according to an article by Dr. Edward Horvath, director of occupational health in the department of general internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. […] Diagnosing SBS can be challenging, because its symptoms are specific to a particular space and often resemble those of other health issues. […] The primary approach is to avoid or eliminate the root causes, which can alleviate symptoms.

• #64 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  There is no specific medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. Physicians usually treat the symptoms individually, but the real identification of a „sick building” is subjective. Telltale clues include increased absenteeism among the building occupants, a large number of occupants complaining about vague but similar symptoms, and a common history of symptom resolution when people are not in the building.

• #65 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  There is no specific medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. Physicians usually treat the symptoms individually, but the real identification of a „sick building” is subjective. Telltale clues include increased absenteeism among the building occupants, a large number of occupants complaining about vague but similar symptoms, and a common history of symptom resolution when people are not in the building.

• #66 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  There is no specific medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. Physicians usually treat the symptoms individually, but the real identification of a „sick building” is subjective. Telltale clues include increased absenteeism among the building occupants, a large number of occupants complaining about vague but similar symptoms, and a common history of symptom resolution when people are not in the building.

• #67 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  There is no specific medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. Physicians usually treat the symptoms individually, but the real identification of a „sick building” is subjective. Telltale clues include increased absenteeism among the building occupants, a large number of occupants complaining about vague but similar symptoms, and a common history of symptom resolution when people are not in the building.

• #68 Sick Building Syndrome: What It Is and Tips for Prevention — Occupational Health & Safety

  https://ohsonline.com/articles/2016/10/01/sick-building-syndrome.aspx

  There is no specific medical test to diagnose sick building syndrome. Physicians usually treat the symptoms individually, but the real identification of a „sick building” is subjective. Telltale clues include increased absenteeism among the building occupants, a large number of occupants complaining about vague but similar symptoms, and a common history of symptom resolution when people are not in the building.

• #69 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  For these symptoms to be from sick building syndrome, they should resolve soon after leaving the building and should be found in a number of individuals in the building. […] When assessing a building for possible sick building syndrome, it is best to start with a walk around to assess the occupants in the area affected, the condition of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and identify pollution sources and contamination sources. […] There is no known treatment for this condition. Avoidance and elimination of the underlying causes of the problem, to the extent possible, may help relieve symptoms. […] Many workers worry about long-term complications of working in a building that has a sick building syndrome. There are no documented studies that clearly demonstrate a causal link between having worked in a sick building and chronic medical conditions. […] Maintaining the HVAC system to ensure that it functions properly and does not become contaminated is important in preventing sick building syndrome.

• #70 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  For these symptoms to be from sick building syndrome, they should resolve soon after leaving the building and should be found in a number of individuals in the building. […] When assessing a building for possible sick building syndrome, it is best to start with a walk around to assess the occupants in the area affected, the condition of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and identify pollution sources and contamination sources. […] There is no known treatment for this condition. Avoidance and elimination of the underlying causes of the problem, to the extent possible, may help relieve symptoms. […] Many workers worry about long-term complications of working in a building that has a sick building syndrome. There are no documented studies that clearly demonstrate a causal link between having worked in a sick building and chronic medical conditions. […] Maintaining the HVAC system to ensure that it functions properly and does not become contaminated is important in preventing sick building syndrome.

• #71 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  For these symptoms to be from sick building syndrome, they should resolve soon after leaving the building and should be found in a number of individuals in the building. […] When assessing a building for possible sick building syndrome, it is best to start with a walk around to assess the occupants in the area affected, the condition of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and identify pollution sources and contamination sources. […] There is no known treatment for this condition. Avoidance and elimination of the underlying causes of the problem, to the extent possible, may help relieve symptoms. […] Many workers worry about long-term complications of working in a building that has a sick building syndrome. There are no documented studies that clearly demonstrate a causal link between having worked in a sick building and chronic medical conditions. […] Maintaining the HVAC system to ensure that it functions properly and does not become contaminated is important in preventing sick building syndrome.

• #72 Sick Building Syndrome | Los Angeles County Department of Public Health – Environmental Health

  http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/Eh/safety/sick-building-syndrome.htm

  Most of the time, however, no specific cause for the symptoms can be found in the building. Some experts speculate that, in many of these cases, poor indoor air quality may play a role. […] A number of factors can contribute to poor indoor air quality in an office setting, inadequate ventilation being among the most important. Poor ventilation clearly compromises the health of a building’s occupants. […] The occupants of buildings and their work activities can also impact indoor air quality. Environmental tobacco smoke contains a variety of toxic air contaminants and cleaning agents emit volatile organic compounds like toluene and benzene. […] Analyzing air samples to determine air quality seems like a logical way to evaluate „sick building” complaints, but it seldom provides useful information.

• #73 Sick Building Syndrome – International Brotherhood of Teamsters

  https://teamster.org/sick-building-syndrome-0/

  Air sampling for contaminants might seem to be the logical response to the employee complaints, but it seldom provides information about possible causes. […] Pollutant source removal or modification is an effective approach to resolving an IAQ problem when sources are known and control is feasible. […] Increasing ventilation rates and air distribution often can be a cost effective means of reducing indoor pollutant levels. […] Air cleaning can be a useful addition to source control and increased ventilation rates but it has certain limitations. […] Education and communication are important elements in both remedial and preventive indoor air quality management programs.

• #74 Sick Building Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Risks, Treatment and More

  https://www.medicinenet.com/sick_building_syndrome/article.htm

  Proponents further speculate patients with the syndrome may be more sensitive to low concentrations of some compounds and may have heightened immune responses to such compounds. Further, proponents suggest depression and anxiety may play a role in this syndrome. […] Others who say there is no evidence for this syndrome agree that certain chemicals, biologics, and physical agents found in some buildings can cause disease, but once these are identified (for example, lead, Legionnaires’ disease, asbestos), then the disease is identified and is not a new „syndrome.” […] The vast majority of clinicians, whether they agree or disagree that sick building syndrome exists as a medical entity, agree on one major point; there are no tests that can reliably diagnose the alleged sick building syndrome.

• #75 An update on sick building syndrome – PubMed

  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19532093/

  Purpose of review: The aim is to describe recent insight into risk factors for symptoms included in the sick building syndrome (SBS) and to give an insight into preventive work to reduce SBS. […] Recent findings: New studies have added evidence for the role of personality traits and psychosocial work environment, reactive chemistry and the inflammatory properties of indoor particles for SBS. Field studies using physiological methods and measurements of oxidative stress can lead to better understanding of the cause of SBS. […] Summary: SBS is related to both personal and environmental risk factors. In the office environment, SBS may have important economical implications. More focus is needed on the indoor environment in schools and day care centres, hospitals and nursing homes for elderly. Improvements of the home environment may be the most cost-effective way to reduce the burden of indoor exposure. The link between indoor and outdoor air pollution should not be neglected, and the role of energy saving and climate changes will be an important future issue.

• #76 Sick building syndrome – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sick_building_syndrome

  Sick building syndrome may be associated with indoor mold or mycotoxin contamination. However, the attribution of sick building syndrome to mold is controversial and supported by little evidence. […] While sick building syndrome (SBS) encompasses a multitude of non-specific symptoms, building-related illness (BRI) comprises specific, diagnosable symptoms caused by certain agents (chemicals, bacteria, fungi, etc.).

• #77 Building and Health: Mapping the Knowledge Development of Sick Building Syndrome

  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/12/3/287

  At present, with more and more attention paid to the impact of buildings on the health and well-being of occupants, sick building syndrome (SBS) has become a global concern. […] Indoor air pollutants come from both building materials and indoor human activities, and a serious consequence is the outbreak of building sick syndrome (SBS). […] The common symptoms of SBS include headache, mental fatigue, mucosal irritation, skin irritation, respiratory disorder, etc., which cause great harm to human productivity and health. […] Fisk et al. has indicated a significant association between low ventilation rate and SBS as increasing natural ventilation can control humidity and remove indoor pollutants, which is an effective strategy to relieve SBS. […] Exploring the building system problems that cause SBS and developing new building technologies to improve indoor SBS symptoms have become hot topics.

• #78 Building and Health: Mapping the Knowledge Development of Sick Building Syndrome

  https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/12/3/287

  At present, with more and more attention paid to the impact of buildings on the health and well-being of occupants, sick building syndrome (SBS) has become a global concern. […] Indoor air pollutants come from both building materials and indoor human activities, and a serious consequence is the outbreak of building sick syndrome (SBS). […] The common symptoms of SBS include headache, mental fatigue, mucosal irritation, skin irritation, respiratory disorder, etc., which cause great harm to human productivity and health. […] Fisk et al. has indicated a significant association between low ventilation rate and SBS as increasing natural ventilation can control humidity and remove indoor pollutants, which is an effective strategy to relieve SBS. […] Exploring the building system problems that cause SBS and developing new building technologies to improve indoor SBS symptoms have become hot topics.

• #79 Frontiers | Sick building syndrome and its associated factors among adult people living in Hodan district Moqadishu Somalia

  https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/built-environment/articles/10.3389/fbuil.2023.1218659/full

  Residents living in buildings without functional windows were nearly four times more likely to be at risk of developing sick building syndrome (SBS) compared to those living in buildings with functional windows. […] Additionally, building located in close proximity to outdoor pollution sources had a six-fold higher likelihood of experiencing SBS.

• #80 Frontiers | Sick building syndrome and its associated factors among adult people living in Hodan district Moqadishu Somalia

  https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/built-environment/articles/10.3389/fbuil.2023.1218659/full

  Residents living in buildings without functional windows were nearly four times more likely to be at risk of developing sick building syndrome (SBS) compared to those living in buildings with functional windows. […] Additionally, building located in close proximity to outdoor pollution sources had a six-fold higher likelihood of experiencing SBS.

• #81 The Sick Building Syndrome Conundrum: How the COVID-19 Pandemic Has Both Improved and Harmed Indoor Air Quality

  https://learn.kaiterra.com/en/resources/sick-building-syndrome-covid-19-improved-harmed-indoor-air-quality

  Sick building syndrome, also called SBS, is a term used to describe an array of health effects and symptoms linked to time spent in buildings, without any specific diagnosis or causes. […] While cases of SBS may not have directly attributable causes, research shows that poor indoor air quality is one of the main instigators of sick building syndrome. Inadequate ventilation, chemical air pollutants, biological contaminants, and outdoor air pollution can all increase the risk of SBS in buildings. […] The two ways the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted sick building syndrome rates relate to time spent at home and cleaning protocols. […] Both of these downsides can be remedied through increasing ventilation rates, either mechanically or manually (opening windows), and using safer cleaning products (soap and water instead of chemical cleaners) when possible, but there is a catch. […] Overall, the changes that COVID-19 has brought to all of our lives have had some positive and negative impacts on the prevalence of sick building syndrome.

• #82 Sick Building Syndrome Causes | IQAir

  https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/sick-building-syndrome-and-airborne-contaminants?srsltid=AfmBOoq1Xxaz_-zlHZLiJewKe5wwVVqWLhNPFt489dN6kPLBtTulfYRV

  When building occupants are becoming ill from their environment but the exact cause is unknown, its called Sick Building Syndrome. […] Airborne contaminants are usually at the root of Sick Building Syndrome, although the specific cause of the problem may not initially be known. […] Biological contaminants are often the result of excessive moisture or high humidity. These conditions produce an ideal breeding ground for the growth and reproduction of living organisms like bacteria and mold. […] During the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020, tiny airborne aerosols containing infectious SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus particles were found to be the primary mode of transmission for the deadly COVID-19 disease. […] Due to their small size, infectious aerosols can stay airborne for hours, increasing the risk of airborne infection especially in buildings with poor ventilation or low air exchange rates.

• #83 Sick Building Syndrome Causes | IQAir

  https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/sick-building-syndrome-and-airborne-contaminants?srsltid=AfmBOoq1Xxaz_-zlHZLiJewKe5wwVVqWLhNPFt489dN6kPLBtTulfYRV

  When building occupants are becoming ill from their environment but the exact cause is unknown, its called Sick Building Syndrome. […] Airborne contaminants are usually at the root of Sick Building Syndrome, although the specific cause of the problem may not initially be known. […] Biological contaminants are often the result of excessive moisture or high humidity. These conditions produce an ideal breeding ground for the growth and reproduction of living organisms like bacteria and mold. […] During the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020, tiny airborne aerosols containing infectious SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus particles were found to be the primary mode of transmission for the deadly COVID-19 disease. […] Due to their small size, infectious aerosols can stay airborne for hours, increasing the risk of airborne infection especially in buildings with poor ventilation or low air exchange rates.

• #84 Sick building syndrome – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sick_building_syndrome

  Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a condition in which people develop symptoms of illness or become infected with chronic disease from the building in which they work or reside. […] Attempts have been made to connect sick building syndrome to various causes, such as contaminants produced by outgassing of some building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOC), improper exhaust ventilation of ozone, light industrial chemicals used within, and insufficient fresh-air intake or air filtration. […] Sick building syndrome has also been attributed to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, an attribution about which there are inconsistent findings. […] Certain VOCs, considered toxic chemical contaminants to humans, are used as adhesives in many common building construction products.

• #85 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  Sick building syndrome is a condition that occurs when a number of a building’s occupants have a constellation of nonspecific symptoms without a specific identifiable cause, including nausea; irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; mental fatigue; headaches; skin irritation; and dizziness. […] These symptoms should be temporally related to being in the building, resolve when the person is not in the building, and be found in a number of individuals within the building. […] There are many theories as to what causes sick building syndrome. Commonly cited causes are inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor sources, and chemical contaminants from outdoor sources. […] Inadequate ventilation is one the most often cited reasons. […] Common chemical contaminants inside the building are found in paint, adhesives, carpeting, cleaning agents, and upholstered furniture. These chemicals can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• #86

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #87 Sick Building Syndrome Causes | IQAir

  https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/sick-building-syndrome-and-airborne-contaminants?srsltid=AfmBOoq1Xxaz_-zlHZLiJewKe5wwVVqWLhNPFt489dN6kPLBtTulfYRV

  When building occupants are becoming ill from their environment but the exact cause is unknown, its called Sick Building Syndrome. […] Airborne contaminants are usually at the root of Sick Building Syndrome, although the specific cause of the problem may not initially be known. […] Biological contaminants are often the result of excessive moisture or high humidity. These conditions produce an ideal breeding ground for the growth and reproduction of living organisms like bacteria and mold. […] During the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020, tiny airborne aerosols containing infectious SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus particles were found to be the primary mode of transmission for the deadly COVID-19 disease. […] Due to their small size, infectious aerosols can stay airborne for hours, increasing the risk of airborne infection especially in buildings with poor ventilation or low air exchange rates.

• #88 Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Tests & Prevention

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm

  Sick building syndrome is a condition that occurs when a number of a building’s occupants have a constellation of nonspecific symptoms without a specific identifiable cause, including nausea; irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; mental fatigue; headaches; skin irritation; and dizziness. […] These symptoms should be temporally related to being in the building, resolve when the person is not in the building, and be found in a number of individuals within the building. […] There are many theories as to what causes sick building syndrome. Commonly cited causes are inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor sources, and chemical contaminants from outdoor sources. […] Inadequate ventilation is one the most often cited reasons. […] Common chemical contaminants inside the building are found in paint, adhesives, carpeting, cleaning agents, and upholstered furniture. These chemicals can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• #89

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  2. Biological contaminants […] The biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds, etc. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drainpipes and ducts or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, carpets and upholstery. […] Insect and bird droppings can also be a source of biological contamination. Biological contamination causes fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches and allergic reactions. In offices with a high density of occupancy, airborne diseases can spread rapidly from one worker to another. Air-conditioning systems can recirculate pathogens and spread them throughout the building e.g., Legionnaire’s disease due to legionella organisms. […] 3. Inadequate ventilation […] In 1970, oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. The ventilation was reduced to 5 cfm/person. This reduced ventilation rate was found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVAC systems) also increase the indoor air pollution.

• #90

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #91 What Is Sick Building Syndrome? – Filti

  https://filti.com/sick-building-syndrome/?srsltid=AfmBOooitAaH95E8PxE2Gx0cLDs_WIT321cqD9xlFSoaVfdqqKr_wEFB

  Microwaves, TVs, and computers create electromagnetic radiation that ionizes the air. In addition, extensive wiring that is not correctly grounded also generates strong magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] SBS is frequently related to excessive work stress or discontent, poor interpersonal interactions, and poor communication. […] Because professionals or managers often have better work conditions, symptoms of SBS are more common in individuals with clerical positions than in those with management positions. […] The symptoms are more prevalent in buildings with air conditioning than in buildings with natural ventilation. Additionally, they are more prevalent in public sector buildings than private ones. […] The symptoms of sick building syndrome usually improve as you leave the dangerous building in question. Persistent symptoms improve if you’ve either eliminated your exposure or addressed risks within the building. Clean air is essential, and with long-term exposure to poor indoor air, the chance of lung disorders such as asthma can increase.

• #92

  https://journals.lww.com/ijoe/fulltext/2008/12020/the_sick_building_syndrome.4.aspx

  4. Electromagnetic radiation […] Gadgets like microwaves, televisions and computers emit electromagnetic radiation, which ionizes the air. Extensive wiring without proper grounding also creates high magnetic fields, which have been linked to cancer. […] 5. Psychological factors […] Excessive work stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships and poor communication are often seen to be associated with SBS. […] 6. Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS. […] The symptoms of SBS are commonly seen in people with clerical jobs than in people with managerial jobs because professionals or managers have better working conditions. The symptoms are more common in females than in males probably because more females are in secretarial jobs, they are more aware of their health or a lesser dose of pollutants is required to manifest the effects. The symptoms are more common in air-conditioned buildings than in naturally ventilated buildings and are more common in a public sector building than in a private sector building.

• #93

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Noise can contribute to SBS, but in differing ways. […] Lighting has the potential to affect health and comfort. […] Hygrothermal factors include temperature, humidity and air movement, all of which have an effect on the comfort of building occupants. […] Job stress and dissatisfaction are probably more important causes of symptoms than physical and chemical factors in the indoor environment. […] The prevalence of symptoms appears to be highest among clerical staff, with their more routine work, than among professional staff. […] One reason for the lack of an accurate cause or cure for SBS is that the majority of investigations into SBS only look at part of the problem. […] There is evidence that, although SBS does not cause serious damage to health, it does result in potentially problematic consequences.

• #94 The sick building syndrome

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2796751/

  The sick building syndrome (SBS) is used to describe a situation in which the occupants of a building experience acute health- or comfort-related effects that seem to be linked directly to the time spent in the building. No specific illness or cause can be identified. The complainants may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. […] The cause of the symptoms is not known. It reduces work efficiency and increases absenteeism. Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building, although lingering effects of neurotoxins can occur. […] The following are some of the factors that might be primarily responsible for SBS: Chemical contaminants, Biological contaminants, Inadequate ventilation, Electromagnetic radiation, Psychological factors, Poor and inappropriate lighting with absence of sunlight, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics and humidity may also contribute to SBS.

• #95

  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/rlp.2008.20

  Noise can contribute to SBS, but in differing ways. […] Lighting has the potential to affect health and comfort. […] Hygrothermal factors include temperature, humidity and air movement, all of which have an effect on the comfort of building occupants. […] Job stress and dissatisfaction are probably more important causes of symptoms than physical and chemical factors in the indoor environment. […] The prevalence of symptoms appears to be highest among clerical staff, with their more routine work, than among professional staff. […] One reason for the lack of an accurate cause or cure for SBS is that the majority of investigations into SBS only look at part of the problem. […] There is evidence that, although SBS does not cause serious damage to health, it does result in potentially problematic consequences.

• #96 An update on sick building syndrome – PubMed

  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19532093/

  Purpose of review: The aim is to describe recent insight into risk factors for symptoms included in the sick building syndrome (SBS) and to give an insight into preventive work to reduce SBS. […] Recent findings: New studies have added evidence for the role of personality traits and psychosocial work environment, reactive chemistry and the inflammatory properties of indoor particles for SBS. Field studies using physiological methods and measurements of oxidative stress can lead to better understanding of the cause of SBS. […] Summary: SBS is related to both personal and environmental risk factors. In the office environment, SBS may have important economical implications. More focus is needed on the indoor environment in schools and day care centres, hospitals and nursing homes for elderly. Improvements of the home environment may be the most cost-effective way to reduce the burden of indoor exposure. The link between indoor and outdoor air pollution should not be neglected, and the role of energy saving and climate changes will be an important future issue.

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