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Sick Building Syndrome
Is your office making you and your co-workers sick?
Indoor air quality can have a big impact in both the office and home, potentially leading to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) if it is poor. Air quality can go downhill as a result of the building’s design or indoor activities.
Poor air quality can encompass biological contaminants such as bacteria, molds and viruses; chemical contaminants such as volatile organic compounds, and insufficient ventilation. Other contributors to feelings of unease in the office or home can be temperatures, lighting and humidity that are too high or too low.
Indoor-allergy sufferers can have their condition worsened by working or living in areas with poor air quality. Workers or residents in those environments experience poor health and low comfort levels that can’t be directly attributed to an illness. Instead, symptoms can often be linked to spending time in a certain room or building.
It has been said that over 25 % of buildings worldwide get complaints about indoor air quality or sick building syndrome. Some buildings go through temporary problems, while others are caused for concern in the long term.
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Obviously, these symptoms can come with a variety of indoor health concerns. But if no other cause can be found and the symptoms ease upon leaving the building and begin again upon re-entry, sick building syndrome may be involved.
It may not be possible to positively diagnose all cases of sick building syndrome, but steps can be taken to make environment better for everyone. Clean and replace existing air filters or purchases and air purifying system if there isn’t one already. |
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