Abstract
Efforts to conserve energy by constructing energy efficient buildings have created problems that have been recognized as important contributing factors to "sick building syndrome" (SBS). This paper presents a review of the published literature and investigations of buildings suspected to have SBS. It is concluded that SBS is caused by multiple factors such as indoor air contaminants both chemical and microbiological; inadequate ventilation; poor lighting; thermal discomfort; radon and odors. These are compounded by psychological factors such as workplace stress and dissatisfaction with the work environment. Personal factors are also responsible for the syndrome.
The symptoms experienced by the occupants may have resulted from the synergestic effect of various contaminants and environmental conditions. The problem of SBS lies in the internal environment, so that in resolving the problem, one must focus on the cause and not on the symptoms. Among the topics considered in this review are the common features of SBS, occurrence of SBS, the energy efficiency of buildings and its relation to SBS and productivity. This paper is concluded with a list of recommendations to ameliorate SBS.
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