Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) describes situations where people experience acute health and comfort problems linked to time spent inside a specific building — even though no single illness or direct cause can be identified. Symptoms may be isolated to one room or spread throughout the entire building.
In contrast, building-related illnesses (BRI) involve diagnosable conditions such as asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, rhinosinusitis, or infections directly caused by airborne contaminants.
Occupants experiencing SBS may report:
Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
Eye, nose, or throat irritation
Dry cough or hoarseness of voice
Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or sensitivity to odors
Dry, itchy skin
Allergy-like or flu-like symptoms
Worsening asthma attacks
A key sign of SBS is that symptoms improve or disappear soon after leaving the building, although in some cases lingering effects from neurotoxins may remain.
BRIs, which are more medically serious, may present as:
Persistent cough or chest pain
Shortness of breath with mild exertion
Swelling (edema)
Palpitations
Unlike SBS, these illnesses are clinically diagnosable and can cause lasting health problems.
Since the 1970s, public health agencies have investigated SBS complaints from office workers and building occupants. Common triggers include:
Poor ventilation and air circulation
Mold growth and hidden moisture issues
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from building materials, furniture, or cleaning products
Dust, allergens, or other airborne contaminants
SBS reduces workplace efficiency and can increase absenteeism, making it a health and productivity issue for employers as well as residents.
| Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) | Building-Related Illness (BRI) |
|---|---|
| Subjective, non-specific symptoms | Diagnosable medical conditions |
| Symptoms improve after leaving the building | Symptoms persist regardless of building exit |
| High prevalence in offices and non-industrial spaces | Less common, but more medically serious |
| Usually reversible | May result in long-term health impacts |
To prevent SBS and BRI:
Maintain adequate ventilation and air filtration
Control humidity and moisture to prevent mold growth
Use low-VOC paints, sealants, and furnishings
Regularly inspect HVAC systems for mold or dust buildup
Schedule indoor air quality testing when symptoms are widespread
If you suspect Sick Building Syndrome or building-related illness in your home or workplace, professional testing can identify hidden contaminants.
📞 Call Angstrom Testing Services at 516-724-4574 or visit our Air Quality Testing page for more information.
Explore our full range of services:
Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)
American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH)
Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration & Certification (IICRC)