What is “sick building” syndrome?
Indoor air pollution problems don't only happen in homes. The environment in office buildings may cause some health problems. Even though most can be treated, some pose serious risks. Sometimes, people have symptoms that do not fit the pattern of any illness and are hard to trace to a source. This problem has been labeled “sick building” syndrome. People may suffer from one or more of these symptoms:
- dry or burning in nose, eyes, and throat
- sneezing
- stuffy or runny nose
- fatigue or feeling tired or sluggish
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- feeling irritable
- being forgetful
There is no single way in which these health problems appear. In some cases, problems begin as workers enter their offices or office buildings and go away as workers leave their offices or office buildings. At other times, symptoms continue until the illness is treated. Sometimes, there are even outbreaks of illness among many workers in a building. In other cases, health symptoms only show up in a few workers.
The main factor that affects office air quality is pollution. Some common sources of office pollution are:
- tobacco smoke
- asbestos from insulating and fire-proof building supplies
- formaldehyde from pressed wood products
- cleaning products
- water-damaged walls, ceilings, and carpets
- pesticides
- poor air flow
Poor lighting, unacceptable noise levels, comfort problems due to improper temperature and relative humidity conditions, and job-related psycho-social stressors are problems which may also be related to indoor air quality.
If you think indoor air pollution could be causing your health problems, report your concerns. Talk to the employee health nurse or safety officer on your job site. Also, talk with your doctor. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) can give you information on how to have your office tested. Call 800-35NIOSH. You can also call the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at 800-321-OSHA (6742).
