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
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- 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
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Biological Contaminants
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- Viruses
- Microbial or mite contamination in HVAC system
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Sources
- Stagnant water accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pipes
- Water collected on ceiling tiles, carpeting or insulation
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- Insects or animal droppings
- Employees, coworkers & clients
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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
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- 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
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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
