Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome

Symptoms of sick building syndrome (SBS) are complex. The syndrome is associated with indoor environment either at one’s place of work or residence. The sick building syndrome has been found to occur in about 30 % of new and remodeled buildings. Poor indoor air quality is the main contributor to the symptoms of sick building syndrome.

Often, the cause of sick building syndrome is difficult to identify though the occupant of a building will complain of acute health effects that seem to be related to the time they spend in the building. The problem may be restricted to one specific area or room, or could be prevalent throughout the whole building. It has been observed that symptoms of sick building syndrome usually occur when the building is maintained in a way that is not consistent with its original design or approved operating procedures, or when resident activities generate a problem.

Causes of Sick Building Syndrome

The actual cause of SBS is not known. However, the following are believed to play a role in development of sick building syndrome.

Malfunctioning heating, ventilation and and air conditioning system.
Dampness.
Toxins from off-gassing building materials and volatile organic materials.
Poor ventilation
Toxins and noxious wastes from outside sources such as: vehicle fumes and exhausts, plumbing vents, and inside sources such as: carpeting, upholstery, cleaning agents and pesticides.
Biological contaminants such bacteria, pollen, viruses and molds.