Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

SBS is a term used to describe a building in which the occupants experience a range of symptoms causing discomfort and a sense of being unwell, rather than a specific illness. These buildings are typically modern offices which have mechanical ventilation or air conditioning. This is a complex problem and both physical and psychological causes have been suggested.

The range of symptoms may occur at a measurably higher incidence rate than expected amongst occupants of particular buildings for no readily identifiable reason. They have been summarised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as:

  • eye, nose and throat irritation
  • sensitization of mucous membranes and skin
  • erythema (skin rash)
  • headaches
  • high frequency of airway infection and cough
  • hoarseness, wheezing
  • itching and unspecified hypersensitivity
  • nausea and dizziness.

Symptoms are generally mild, although they may affect personal performance and motivation, sometimes significantly. Research indicates the following contributory factors which may be relevant:

  • inadequate ventilation rates
  • high uniform temperature and lack of air movement
  • low relative humidity
  • poor lighting, particularly little daylight
  • airborne chemical pollution
  • airborne organic matter from the air conditioning system
  • low morale and general dissatisfaction with work and/or the environment.

Investigation of the specific causes in a particular building may be involved and lengthy and require specialist expertise. Should an apparent episode come to light then the investigation of other causes of symptoms, for example causes by common viruses, should be investigated. When these causes are eliminated the following actions could be taken to improve the working environment which may result in beneficial effects on SBS symptoms:

  • Determining whether symptoms are local to a part of a building or widespread.
  • Investigating the general operation of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and their maintenance schedules.
  • The general cleanliness of the interior of the building and the furnishing.
  • The views of staff and their complaints should be investigated.

As a first step, the views of the Occupational Health Manager should be sought.