Sick Building Syndrome - Definition

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a medical phenomenon whereby the occupants of a building develop acute health and comfort problems that have no apparent cause, but can be linked to the time spent in a particular building, or area of a building. A 1984 World Health Organisation report into the syndrome suggested up to 30% of new and remodelled buildings worldwide may be subject to SBS. Although the conditions may be temporary, some buildings may suffer long term effects.

Symptoms of SBS

• Building occupants complain of symptoms associated with acute discomfort, e.g., headache; eye, nose, or throat irritation; dry cough; dry or itchy skin; dizziness and nausea; difficulty in concentrating; fatigue; and sensitivity to odours.
• The cause of the symptoms is not known.
• Most of the occupants report relief soon after leaving the building.

Causes of SBS

• Inadequate ventilation.
• Poor ergonomics.
• Chemical contamination.
• Biological contamination.
• Too many electrical devices close to working spaces.