Prevention of Sick building syndrome

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Employers have a legal responsibility to prevent work-related accidents and ill health.

Where SBS is suspected, it should be investigated promptly and systematically, starting with the most likely sources. However the causes of SBS may be complex and difficult to identify.

Employers should check the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and correct any faults. Temperatures should not be too high or too low or fluctuate rapidly. Ventilation systems should be checked to ensure that they do not take air in from badly positioned sources, so car exhaust fumes, fumes from heating and plumbing systems, toilets and kitchens are not circulated through the building.

Improving air-flow and ventilation often improves SBS symptoms. Any specific pollutants should be identified and removed if possible. Air filters can be used or air may need to be vented directly to the outside, especially from smoking rooms, print rooms, copy rooms and other places that contain many chemicals or contaminants. If paints, solvents, pesticides or adhesives are used or stored the area should be very well ventilated.

The cleanliness of the carpets and furnishings should also be assessed and dust levels kept low. Carpets or ceiling tiles that have been damaged by water leaks etc. should be replaced.

Employers should ask for the views of their staff and their complaints should be investigated. The workplace should be organised to maximise comfort.