How can a building make you sick?

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a combination of ailments a person may suffer that are induced by their place of work or home.  Symptoms can range from mildly irritating to debilitating.  Occupants with SBS may suffer from any of the symptoms listed in the above image.

Causes of SBS are most commonly linked to indoor air quality and the presence of toxic substances.  Employees suffering from SBS are less productive in the work environment, may require advanced medical treatment, and may take more sick days - all factors which can aggravate a business or organization's operating costs.

SBS most often results from: Poor ventilation Improper moisture management Presence of asbestos or lead paint Presence of radon, toxic mold or mildew Building products with high VOCs and chemicals Unsafe combustion appliances Fortunately many of these issues are easily remedied by addressing a building's HVAC system.

Working with Ecofutures Building to identify and seal up or repair these issues will make sicknesses in the workplace less likely and make the working environment a more desirable place to be.  Solving SBS generally falls into two categories: improving ventilation systems and removing hazardous materials.

Living machines and living walls help control indoor air quality and comfort by employing the natural air filtering properties of plants.

How to Reduce SBS by Improving Ventilation Install ventilation fans to control moisture Check to make sure fans vent to outside Increase air changes per hour to ensure constant fresh air supply Recommend ventilation systems that improve indoor air quality and increase energy efficiency Inspect HVAC system and clean all ducts, filters and fans (air ducts serve as a breeding ground for mold and bacteria) Remove & replace damp materials that may host mold or mildew Ensure fresh air intake not located near source of pollution, re-locate if necessary Verify safety of combustion appliances Preventing air intake from smoking areas* Use plants to help control indoor air quality via living walls and living machines *Even after smoking outside, toxins from the 3,600 chemicals emitted as a result of tobacco smoke cling to  clothing. Many of these toxins release themselves into the air once inside.  Studies have shown that "second-hand smoke" is up to four times more carcinogenic than smoke inhaled directly from a cigarette.

Reducing SBS by Focusing on Building Materials

• Identify & eliminate toxic building materials
• Remodel with healthy materials
• Cover hazardous materials with non-toxic sealants 
• Use healthy office supplies

Click here to visit the Building Materials information site to learn more about improving your building through materials selection!

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