Have you heard the term "sick building syndrome" on the radio or seen it in a newspaper article? This phrase pops up in the media occasionally, but most people don't know what it means. Let's take a minute to talk about what sick building syndrome (SBS) is and how air quality testing can help. Sick building syndrome is defined by building occupants experiencing health problems that appear related to their time spent in the structure. In all but the most severe cases, the symptoms disappear when the occupants leave the building. These health issues generally fall into the following categories: Eye, nose, and throat irritation Headaches, irritability, and fatigue Asthma and respiratory problems Skin irritation and dryness Gastrointestinal issues Typically, several people need to start suffering from similar health issues around the same time for SBS to be suspected. What causes SBS? The root of sick building syndrome is often inadequate ventilation. This enables indoor contaminants such as VOCs, ozone, industrial chemicals, and mold to accumulate to dangerously high levels. Frequently, the indoor air quality problems related to SBS develop after a new building is completed or following a renovation. If your commercial building is new or recently remodeled or multiple staff members have recently reported feeling ill, you need to have your property evaluated for sick building syndrome. Common Sense Inspections Inc. provides comprehensive air quality testing to identify SBS in your property. Accurately pinpointing the problem is the first step to resolving it and getting your building—and occupants—back on the track to health. Call our team today to put our 35 years' experience to work ending sick building syndrome in your workplace!