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Sick-building syndrome
1John B. Pierce Foundation Laboratory, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
Environmental Health Perspectives
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Sick-building syndrome (SBS) involves numerous occupant complaints like headaches and irritation. Addressing inadequate ventilation, contaminants, and psychosocial factors is key to improving building environments and productivity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Building Science
Background:
- Sick-building syndrome (SBS) is characterized by a high prevalence of occupant-reported subjective symptoms.
- Symptoms include headaches, eye/nose/throat irritation, lethargy, and concentration difficulties, with prevalence often exceeding 15-20%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define sick-building syndrome and identify contributing environmental and psychosocial factors.
- To establish symptom prevalence thresholds indicative of building-related issues.
Main Methods:
- The abstract describes the definition and common symptoms of SBS.
- It outlines contributing factors identified through occupant questionnaires and environmental assessments.
Main Results:
- SBS symptoms are reported by a fraction of occupants, with over 30% prevalence suggesting environmental issues.
- Inadequate outdoor air supply, poor ventilation, contaminant sources (smoke, materials, microorganisms), and psychosocial factors are implicated.
Conclusions:
- SBS is multifactorial, rarely caused by a single issue.
- Building environment quality, including ventilation and contaminant control, significantly impacts occupant health and potentially productivity.