Embrace Fresh Air: A Guide to Preventing Sick Building Syndrome

Welcome, dear readers, to a winter appropriate topic that may be affecting you more than you realize – the quality of the indoor air you’re breathing. Have you ever walked into a building and felt immediately uncomfortable or even ill?  Perhaps you experienced symptoms like headache, fatigue, or irritation? You might have been facing the notorious Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). Many people have never heard of it.  And worry not, for we’ll be shedding light on SBS and offer helpful tips on how to prevent it.

What is Sick Building Syndrome?

People often mistakenly assume that their headache or fatigue is a virus they’ve caught from someone or somewhere else.  When in reality, breathing in dirty and contaminated air can make them feel ill.  When poor indoor air quality is the culprit you’ve been hit by SBS.  A smooth criminal. 

According to the EPA, Sick Building Syndrome is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that individuals experience while simply breathing contaminated air inside a building. These symptoms are often linked to time spent indoors and can vary from person to person. Common complaints include headaches, eye and throat irritation, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Causes of Sick Building Syndrome:

• Poor Indoor Air Quality: Stale air and pollutants circulating within a confined space can lead to respiratory issues and discomfort.
• Inadequate Ventilation: Insufficient fresh air circulation can trap pollutants and contribute to the buildup of harmful substances indoors.
• Chemical Contaminants: The presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from paints, cleaning products, and furniture can negatively impact indoor air quality.
• Biological Contaminants: Mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms thriving in damp or poorly maintained environments can trigger allergic reactions and other health issues.

How to Prevent Sick Building Syndrome

SBS can negatively affect mood, concentration and jeopardize your health.  This can reduce work efficiency and increase absenteeism.  If you notice a pattern of multiple staff members taking sick days around the same time, yes, there could be a virus going around. But it could also mean that the indoor air is contaminated in other ways.

• Improve Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation systems are in place.
• Get the HVAC ventilation system cleaned out by a professional.  
• Open windows and doors when possible to allow fresh air circulation.
• Indoor Plants: Bring a touch of nature indoors with air-purifying plants.
• Plants like spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies can help filter out common indoor pollutants.
• Regular Cleaning: Keep the building clean and well-maintained.  Professional office cleaning services are efficient at minimizing and reducing surface contamination.  
• Use environmentally friendly cleaning products to reduce the release of harmful chemicals.
• Monitor Humidity Levels: Keep humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mold growth.
• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Encourage Breaks Outdoors: Encourage employees or residents to take breaks outside to get fresh air and sunlight.  During winter we don’t need to live like vampires. Plus, exposure to the sun’s UV rays in small doses can boost your mood.

In conclusion:

In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the quality of the indoor air that we’re breathing. It’s easy to blame that coughing guy in the Starbucks lobby, or your kids bringing home another mystery bug from school. By taking small, conscious steps, we can create a healthier and more comfortable living or working environment, free from the wrath of Sick Building Syndrome. So there you have it, breathe easy and embrace the fresh air! Questions, contact us.