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Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)- This refers to
the class of complaints and symptoms expressed by building occupants during an IAQ
episode.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that
about 30% of all buildings may be "sick," based on the criteria that 20%
of the occupants may be experiencing health or comfort problems.
Common patterns emerge when looking at SBS:
- Symptoms are mostly nonspecific.
- Forced ventilation is common.
- Buildings are energy efficient.
- People complaining also perceive they have little control over
their environment.
- More complaints come where population densities are higher.
- Symptoms are more likely in afternoon than morning.
COMPLAINTS &
SYMPTOMS
- Upper respiratory irritation: itching eyes, coughing,
sneezing
- Congestion
- Headache, dizziness, nausea
- Fatigue, listlessness, inability to concentrate
- Shortness of breath
- Discomfort of a non-specific nature
These complaints and symptoms often disappear
after leaving the building.
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