Sick Building Syndrome | Investigation & Report

Building Forensics and Occupant Health

January 28, 2012

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) in UK Buildings

Why Sick Building Syndrome is important

Studies have shown that most people spend 90% of their time in indoor environments. Poor SBS in buildings and homes can result in health concerns, lost productivity and liability issues.

SBS problems are often caused by complex inter–related issues including:

Levels of make up air.

Humidity.

Ventilation systems.

Unidentified odours.

Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Dust and particulates.

Air movement and distribution.

VOCs volatile organic chemicals.

Air exchanges per hour.

Biological & Mycological contamination.

What Health effects

People affected by poor SBS invariably display the following symptoms:

Lethargy.

Sore or itchy eyes and throat.

Runny nose.

Depression.

High levels of absenteeism usually late in week.

Poor or reduced performance.

Rash or skin irritation.

Tiredness.

What legal requirements

Employers or duty holders have a duty under the MHSW regulations 1999 to ensure that employees or visitors to their premises are not exposed to danger or risk as defined in HSW ACT 1974. This would include breathable air which may be contaminated or not of suitable quality.

What we do

We provide a thorough investigation of the above mentioned parameters. We use state of art equipment to assess the environment and provide accurate and fast economic reports.