--- title: Avoid Sick Building Syndrome By Spotting The Signs description: The article discusses how to avoid sick building syndrome by understanding it, identifying poor indoor air quality and recognising physical symptoms. image: https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/hubfs/A-person-blowing-their-nose-and-feeling-unwell-due-to-the-effects-of-sick-building-syndrome.jpg --- [![lowe_logo](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/lowe_logo.png?width=300&height=51&name=lowe_logo.png "lowe_logo")](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/) - [Home](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/) - [Sectors](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/sectors) - [Historic](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/historic) - [Residential](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/residential) - [Education](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/education) - [Commercial](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/commercial) - [Scientific](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/scientific) - [Museums](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/museums) - [Public Sector](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/public-sector) - [Health](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/health) - [Sports & Leisure](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/sports-and-leisure) - Services - [Commercial Boiler Maintenance](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/commercial-boiler-maintenance) - [Commercial Heating Maintenance](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/commercial-heating-maintenance) - [LED Lighting](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/led-lighting) - [Electric Vehicle Charging](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging) - [Solar PVs](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/solar-pvs) - [Air Conditioning](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/air-conditioning) - [Renewable Technology](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/renewable-technology) - [Electrical Maintenance](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/electrical-maintenance) - [Mechanical Installations](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/mechanical-installations) - [Design](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/design) - [Building Maintenance](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/building-maintenance) - [Lighting](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/lighting) - [PAT Testing](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/pat-testing) - [Testing & Inspection](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/testing-and-inspection) - [Heat Pumps](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/heat-pumps) - [Data Cabling](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/data-cabling) - [About](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/about) - [Apprenticeships](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/apprenticeships) - [Vision & Mission](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/vision-and-mission) - [Vacancies](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/vacancies) - [Accreditations](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/accreditations) - [Meet The Team](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/meet-the-team) - [Contact](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/contact) - Resources - [Case Studies](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/tag/case-studies) - [Blog](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk) - [News](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/news) - [Links](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/links) - [Projects](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/sectors) - [Testimonials](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/testimonials) ## The Lowe & Oliver Blog # Protecting Yourself at Work: How to Spot Signs of Sick Building Syndrome Posted by [Paul Tuson](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/author/paul-tuson) on August 31st , 2023 - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ![A-person-blowing-their-nose-and-feeling-unwell-due-to-the-effects-of-sick-building-syndrome](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/A-person-blowing-their-nose-and-feeling-unwell-due-to-the-effects-of-sick-building-syndrome.jpg?width=750&height=495&name=A-person-blowing-their-nose-and-feeling-unwell-due-to-the-effects-of-sick-building-syndrome.jpg) Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a complex and often misunderstood condition. It is characterised by a collection of [non-specific symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2796751/#:~:text=INTRODUCTION,or%20cause%20can%20be%20identified) that occupants of a particular [building](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/mechanical-and-electrical-contractors) experience, often linked to the time they spend within the [premises.](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/building-maintenance) [![Get In Touch](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4026364/5b4e82c5-b17f-4b39-92d4-c5a380ac720b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4026364/5b4e82c5-b17f-4b39-92d4-c5a380ac720b) The symptoms, ranging from headaches and fatigue to respiratory problems, typically improve or disappear once the individual leaves the building. However, these health concerns can significantly impact employee well-being and productivity. ## **Understanding Sick Building Syndrome** SBS is typically the result of poor indoor environmental quality. [Common causes](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sick-building-syndrome/) include inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from indoor or outdoor sources, and biological contaminants such as bacteria, mould, pollen, and viruses. While the symptoms can often be vague and varied, recognising the early signs can help prevent more severe health problems. ## **Identifying Poor Indoor Air Quality** Poor indoor air quality is a principal contributor to SBS. Stale or stuffy air, unusual odours, and noticeable changes in humidity are signs that indoor air quality is compromised. These issues may indicate an inadequate ventilation system or the presence of air contaminants, which can trigger various health problems if left unchecked. Regular monitoring of air quality can help identify potential issues before they escalate. ## **Recognising Physical Symptoms** Physical symptoms associated with SBS are diverse. They often include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, eye and throat irritation, and respiratory problems. Notably, these symptoms tend to improve or disappear upon leaving the building, and this correlation is a strong indicator of SBS. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to these physical signs and take appropriate action if they persist. ## **Spotting Issues with Lighting** Poor lighting conditions can significantly contribute to SBS. Symptoms such as eye strain and headaches can be triggered by inadequate lighting, glare, or flickering lights. Such conditions can cause physical discomfort and reduce productivity. So, ensuring a building has proper and sufficient lighting is critical to a healthy indoor environment. ## **Checking for Mould or Water Damage** Mould or water damage can lead to a severe case of SBS. Mould exposure can lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems. Persistent coughing or shortness of breath, particularly at work, may suggest the presence of mould or water damage. Regular inspections can help identify and address these issues early. ## **Taking Action** Suspecting a case of SBS requires prompt and decisive action. A professional [indoor air quality](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/what-type-of-air-conditioning-system-is-best-suited-to-your-business) assessment can provide insight into the severity of the problem. An experienced electrical and mechanical contractor can conduct a comprehensive inspection of the premises to identify potential issues and suggest effective remediation measures. Addressing the causes of SBS can dramatically improve the health and well-being of building occupants. ## **Protect Building Occupants from SBS with Lowe & Oliver's Expert Maintenance Services** Sick building syndrome can significantly impact the health and productivity of building occupants. Recognising the early signs and understanding when to seek professional help is critical to [maintaining a safe, healthy, and efficient working environment.](https://blog.loweoliver.co.uk/mechanical-and-electrical-contractors) Protect your business and employees from Sick Building Syndrome with the expert services of Lowe & Oliver. [For more information](https://www.loweoliver.co.uk/contact) on how our team of experts can help you, explore our comprehensive building maintenance services. 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