Sick Building Syndrome: Is Your Office at Risk?

Have you ever felt tired and dull at work and happy and relaxed at home? If that happens to you, maybe you’re not imagining it. You can have Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).

SBS isn’t simply a business fad. It is a concern because it can harm employee health, mood and productivity—more often than most employers believe.

It is necessary to be aware of the problem, trust the experts, and assume a kind perspective, as the community’s safety means better health for all. Hire professional commercial cleaning and residential cleaning services to resolve sick building syndrome issue.

Sick Building Syndrome
Table of Contents

What is Sick Building Syndrome?

Sick Building Syndrome is a problem that affects people living in a specific building or home. Often, the symptoms start without explanation and disappear when people step outside.

You might be surprised to learn that issues such as bad air, poor airflow and contact with chemicals are the leading causes.

Common Symptoms of SBS

The signs of SBS may be mistaken for allergies, simple viruses or the effects of stress. Common signs include:

  • Headaches
  • Fatigue or brain fog
  • Eye, nose, or throat irritation
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Dizziness or nausea
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Sensitivity to odors

What Causes Sick Building Syndrome?

Causes of SBS usually come from a mix of environmental issues.

Poor Ventilation

When fresh air cannot reach your building, indoor pollution increases. When your home air isn’t fresh, there could be more mold spores, carbon dioxide and allergens.

Chemical Contaminants

Many offices contain furniture, building materials, cleaners, paints, or glues that are VOC sources. These can cause bothersome irritations and headaches in the respiratory system.

Mold and Mildew

Moist ceilings or improper maintenance can also create the right environment for mold to grow, often in places you do not usually notice, like air ducts or wall insulation.

Inadequate Cleaning Practices

If a building is shared and cleaning isn’t done often, dust, pollen, and bacteria can easily amass.

Is Your Office at Risk?

Ask yourself:

  • Do employees regularly report feeling unwell in the building?
  • Is the HVAC system outdated or seldom maintained?
  • Are windows sealed shut with no airflow?
  • Is there visible dust buildup, musty odors, or water damage?

If you say yes to any of these, your building may need help.

What You Can Do About It

Plenty of conditions are treatable, and often, you can prevent them from occurring. You can do the following to play your part:

Improve Ventilation

Check on your HVAC regularly, change or clean the filters, and try to use natural air whenever possible.

Use Low-VOC Products

Switch over to products made with fewer toxins to protect your health at work.

Conduct Regular Deep Cleans

Choose cleaners who realize it’s necessary to go beyond the surfaces you can see and clean air vents, carpets and couches.

Check Humidity Levels

Indoor humidity should be 30–50% to stop mold from forming and keep a comfortable temperature.

Educate and Listen to Employees

Invite your team to let you know about any concerns they have. Pets often make it clear that there’s something wrong long before us.

Wrap Up

Although Sick Building Syndrome isn’t always seen, its impact can be real. Ignoring workplace stress can lead to increased sick days, lower team spirits and have lasting health effects for your team.

Taking action—cleaning often, improving indoor air conditions and listening to your workers—helps you do more than keep up your building. You’re helping to build a healthy and more efficient workplace.

People can certainly feel better knowing this.

Local Commercial Cleanup in Madison, WI

Superior Commercial Cleaning for a Fresh Start 

Samantha Rayas

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *