Sick Building Syndrome or SBS is a combination of ailments associated with an individual’s place of work or residence due to poor indoor air quality.

Sick building causes are attributed to contaminants produced by off-gassing of building materials, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), molds & improper exhaust ventilation of chemicals being used within.

As we continue to transition into a more synthetic world, the concentration of chemical and biological contaminants that constantly surround where we live and work increases.

Causes of Sick Building Syndrome

   Chemical Contaminants

  • Carpeting
  • Upholstery fabrics
  • Vinyl flooring
  • Manufactured wood products
    (particle board)
  • Plastics
  • Electronic devices
  • Copy machines
  • Newspaper ink
  • Paint & paint thinner
  • Adhesives
  • Varnishes
  • Cleaning agents
  • Pesticides
  • Ozone
  • Air fresheners
  • Perfume
  • Hair spray
  • Cosmetics
  • Nail polish & nail polish remover
  • Felt tip pens
  • Tobacco smoke
  • Traffic exhaust or gasoline fumes
  • Chlorine (swimming pools)
  • Flame retardants on clothing and furniture

Biological Contaminants

  • Mould (Mold)
  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Microbial or mite contamination in HVAC system

Sources

  • Stagnant water accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pipes
  • Water collected on ceiling tiles, carpeting or insulation
  • Insects or animal droppings
  • Employees, coworkers & clients

Sick Building Syndrome Symptoms

 
   Building occupants complain of
  • Headache
  • Eye, nose, or throat irritation
  • Hoarseness & dry cough
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Nosebleeds
  • Dizziness and nausea
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Sensitivity to odors & chemicals
  • Increased incidence of asthma attacks or appearance of asthma in non-asthmatics
  • Personality changes such as depression, anxiety, rage or paranoia
  • Bronchitis or pneumonia which do not respond to antibiotics
  • Symptoms resembling Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Debilitating fibromyalgia (muscle cramps and joint pain)
  • Shortness of breath upon mild exertion (walking)
  • Tremors
  • Heart palpitations
  • Miscarriages
  • Liver, kidney and Central Nervous System damage
  • Cancer

Solutions for Sick Building Syndrome

Have mr natural assess the environment with a thorough inspection. Testing may also be applicable to quantify contaminants. Contact mr natural® for further assistance

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