Exploring Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is an enigmatic phenomenon often marked by the sudden onset of unexplained illnesses, ranging from nausea and irritation to even emergency evacuations in office spaces or public/commercial buildings. Typically, these symptoms subside upon leaving the building. In essence, SBS encompasses a wide array of conditions that mysteriously cease when exiting the affected environment. These symptoms tend to be acute and immediate rather than chronic and long-term. In extreme cases, they can necessitate swift evacuations or even hospitalization, as exemplified by incidents involving carbon monoxide exposure.
Unpacking SBS Symptoms
Symptoms associated with SBS encompass a diverse spectrum, including headaches, eye/ear/throat irritations, dizziness, itchy skin, fatigue, heightened anxiety, asthma attacks, nausea, and even impaired concentration or memory loss.
Root Causes
SBS is a complex interplay of various factors, such as inadequate ventilation, excessive heat, unpleasant odors, dust, and extreme humidity levels. Substantial alterations in the workplace environment, such as relocations, changes in occupancy levels, and the introduction of noise and odors, can significantly impact an individual's well-being and productivity. Job-related stress can compound these effects, making it increasingly challenging for the body to cope effectively with adverse conditions, whether they stem from stress, chemical exposure, or a combination of both. Additionally, the introduction of new furniture, paints, varnishes, and carpet adhesives can introduce a plethora of chemicals into the air, further complicating the indoor environment. Increases in occupancy, especially when not adequately managed, can overwhelm the environmental controls, leading to SBS episodes.
Responses to SBS
The development of SBS symptoms can be gradual and persist throughout the day. Alternatively, stress-induced panic can trigger an immediate need for evacuation from the affected building.
Diagnostic Testing
Various tests can be conducted to pinpoint the underlying causes of SBS. These fundamental tests encompass:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) - Elevated CO2 levels, often caused by stagnant air, can lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and panic.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) - A potentially life-threatening gas, CO exposure typically results in headaches, dizziness, weakness, and flushed skin. It can enter buildings from external sources like vehicle exhaust.
Temperature - High temperatures, exceeding 76°F, can cause sweating, skin irritation, and anxiety.
Relative Humidity - Low humidity levels below 30% can induce dry eyes, itchy skin, sore throats, sneezing, and coughing, while high humidity above 60% can foster mold growth, leading to allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) - VOCs can originate from perfumes, aftershave lotions, paint solvents, cleaning agents, glues, adhesives, varnishes, oils, and more.
Formaldehyde - Commonly found in furniture adhesives, glues, insulation, fire retardants, and fabrics, formaldehyde can pose health risks.
Mold - Preventing ideal conditions for indoor mold growth, such as high humidity, dampness, flooding, condensation, dirt, and elevated temperatures, is crucial to avoiding allergies, asthma, respiratory irritations, and skin reactions.
Allergens - Common allergens include those from cats, dogs, cockroaches, and dust mites. Even if the animals are absent, their dander can be carried in on clothing. Dust mites and cockroach allergens can accumulate due to inadequate cleanliness. Additionally, fragrances, aftershave lotions, and air fresheners can trigger allergic reactions.
Potential Solutions
Addressing SBS may involve removing specific stressors, such as job-related stress, VOCs, low humidity, or formaldehyde. In more complex cases, improving indoor environmental quality becomes imperative. The solutions are as diverse as the issues at hand. Seeking the expertise of an Indoor Air Quality Specialist is advisable. For assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Building Performance Solution!