Sick building syndrome facts for kids

Sick building syndrome (SBS) is when people feel unwell because of the building they are in. This often happens in offices or homes. In 1984, the World Health Organization said that up to 30% of new or fixed-up buildings might cause SBS symptoms. Most of the time, SBS is linked to bad air quality inside the building.

SBS can happen because of problems with the building's air system. This system is called HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). Other causes include harmful chemicals from building materials. These are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Molds can also cause problems. Sometimes, office machines make ozone, which needs proper ventilation. Using strong cleaning chemicals or not getting enough fresh air can also lead to SBS.

To fix SBS, people try to bring more fresh air into the building. But new green building designs aim to stop SBS from happening at all. Cleaners should use fewer dangerous chemicals. They should also remove things that cause allergies or harmful mold.

What Are the Symptoms of SBS?

People in sick buildings often complain about many things. Their eyes, nose, and throat might feel itchy or sore. They might have general health issues or skin irritation. Some people feel extra sensitive to things. They might also notice strange smells or tastes.

Different people might have different symptoms. The main clue for SBS is when many people start feeling sick around the same time. This usually happens within a few weeks. Most of the time, SBS symptoms get better quickly after people leave the building. However, some harmful chemicals can have lasting effects. These might not go away even after leaving the building. People who are very sensitive can have long-term health problems.

How Can We Prevent SBS?

Here are some steps that can help stop SBS:

• Clean roof shingles to remove algae, mold, and Gloeocapsa magma.
• Remove or change where harmful things are stored.
• Replace ceiling tiles and carpets that have water stains.
• Use paints, glues, and cleaners when no one is in the building. Make sure the area is well-ventilated.
• Increase how often the air in the building is changed. Experts suggest at least 8.4 air changes every 24 hours.
• Keep HVAC systems working well with regular check-ups.
• Put a UV-C light in the HVAC system. This light helps clean the air.
• Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. These vacuums catch tiny particles, making the air cleaner.

Do Boys and Girls Report SBS Differently?

Studies suggest that gender might play a role in how SBS is reported. Girls and women tend to report more symptoms than boys and men. Some research shows that women's immune systems might be more active. They might also be more likely to have dry skin or facial redness.

Also, some believe women might be more exposed to indoor factors. This is because they often work in office jobs. These jobs might involve special office equipment or materials. Men, on the other hand, might have jobs outside of offices more often.

Related pages

• Aerotoxic syndrome

• Martín-Gil J, Yanguas MC, San José JF, Rey-Martínez and Martín-Gil FJ. "Outcomes of research into a sick hospital". Hospital Management International, 1997, pp 80–82. Sterling Publications Limited.

See also

In Spanish: Síndrome del edificio enfermo para niños