Indoor Air Pollution – Effects of the “Sick Building Syndrome”
Have you ever experienced symptoms such as sensory irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, neurotoxic or general health problems, skin irritation, nonspecific hypersensitivity reactions, odor and taste sensations while working in your work place? Subconsciously, you feel more relieved upon leaving that particular room or working zone? Chances are, you may be a victim of SBS or what is termed as “Sick Building Syndrome”.
It is quite a common occurrence for a dozen sick occupants to report a surprising variety of individual symptoms which may be dismissed as unconnected. However, the increased incidence of illnesses in general within a relatively short period of time, usually with the onset of the cases within a period of a few weeks of each other, should raise the suspicions of the company doctor.
There may also be lingering effects of various neurotoxins, which may not have cleared up when the occupant leaves the building. However, the long term health effects of the people cannot be overlooked, especially in particularly weakened or sensitive individuals.
The contributing factors to the Sick Building Syndrome often relate to the design of the building and may include a combination of some or all of the following, such as poor indoor air quality, toxic mold, artificial fragrance (for example, emitted from dryer sheets), absence or limited natural sunlight in the building, poor heating or ventilation, microbial or mite contamination of HVAC systems, bad acoustics or infrasound, poorly designed furnishings, furniture and equipment (for example, computer monitors, photocopiers, etc.), poor ergonomics, chemical contamination and biological contamination.
Sick Building Syndrome may cause high levels of employee sickness or absenteeism, lower productivity, low job satisfaction and high employee turnover, leading to higher costs and losses for the corporation.
Therefore, it is in the best interest of the companies as well, to ensure a clean, healthy and safe environment for its employees.
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Dr. Sloan, MD., is a qualified practicing medical doctor with a passion for the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of illnesses and diseases. Subscribe for his newsletter containing solid information and advice at http://www.drsloanmd.com.
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