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United States Environmental Protection Agency. Indoor Air Facts No. 4: Sick Building
Syndrome. Office of Air and Radiation. Office of Research and Development, February
1991.
INDOOR AIR FACTS NO. 4: SICK BUILDING SYNDROME
Introduction
The term "sick building syndrome" (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building
occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a
building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a
particular room or zone, or may be widespread throughout the building. In contrast, the term
"building related illness" (BRI) is used when symptoms of diagnosable illness are identified and
can be attributed directly to airborne building contaminants.
A 1984 World Health Organization Committee report suggested that up to 30 percent of new and
remodeled buildings worldwide may be the subject of excessive complaints related to indoor air
quality (IAQ). Often this condition is temporary, but some buildings have long-term problems.
Frequently, problems result when a building is operated or maintained in a manner that is
inconsistent with its original design or prescribed operating procedures. Sometimes indoor air
problems are a result of poor building design or occupant activities.
Indicators of SBS include:
x
Building occupants complain of symptoms associated with acute discomfort, e.g.,
headache; eye, nose, or throat irritation; dry cough; dry or itchy skin; dizziness
and nausea; difficulty in concentrating; fatigue; and sensitivity to odors.
x
The cause of the symptoms is not known.
x
Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building.
Indicators of BRI include:
x
Building occupants complain of symptoms such as cough; chest tightness; fever,
chills; and muscle aches
x
The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes.
x
Complainants may require prolonged recovery times after leaving the building.
It is important to note that complaints may result from other causes. These may include an illness
contracted outside the building, acute sensitivity (e.g., allergies), job related stress or
dissatisfaction, and other psychosocial factors. Nevertheless, studies show that symptoms may be
caused or exacerbated by indoor air quality problems.