What is 'sick building syndrome' commonly associated with?

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a range of symptoms experienced by occupants of a building, which appear to be linked to the time spent in that environment. The condition is primarily associated with insufficient indoor air quality. Factors contributing to SBS often include inadequate ventilation, high levels of indoor pollutants, and improper temperature and humidity control.

When the air quality inside a building is poor, contaminants—such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold, and other allergens—can accumulate, leading to various health problems for the occupants. Symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, eye and throat irritation, and respiratory issues. This highlights the paramount importance of maintaining appropriate indoor air quality through proper ventilation and filtration systems, as well as monitoring indoor pollutants.

While high outdoor air pollution, advanced construction materials, and regular building maintenance can impact indoor air conditions, they are not the primary causes of Sick Building Syndrome. Instead, it is the failure to ensure adequate indoor air quality that leads to this set of health complaints among building occupants. Understanding the link between indoor air quality and health effects is crucial for preventing and addressing Sick Building Syndrome effectively.