“Sick building syndrome” is the name given to a collection of illnesses and symptoms that afflict multiple occupants of particular buildings. The symptoms include sniffles; stuffy noses; itchy eyes; sinus infections; scratchy throats; dry, irritated skin; upset stomachs; headaches; difficulty concentrating; and fatigue or lethargy. The key factors in diagnosing sick building syndrome are a rapid recovery and the disappearance of symptoms after an affected individual leaves the building.
Occurrences are not rare, nor is there a simple solution. Sick building syndrome is common enough that many government agencies have published research on causes and symptoms. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health included it as a recognized health issue1 in its Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Third Edition. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also calls out sick building syndrome, which it refers to simply as “indoor air quality,” and makes several recommendations for remediation, especially increased ventilation.
Causes of Sick Building Syndrome
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. For the full article click here
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