Sick building syndrome refers to a set of symptoms normally associated with office workers who share health issues but no discernible cause is readily apparent. Most often the symptoms improve after workers have left the building but recur when they return to the building.

 

Common causes of sick building syndrome include inadequate ventilation, biological contaminants (bacteria and molds) and chemical contaminants from indoor (carpeting, copy machines and cleaning agents) and outdoor (windows, vents and exhausts). Other elements like poor lighting or temperatures may contribute to workers’ discomfort.

 

Remedying sick building syndrome involves better storage or maintenance of potential chemical contaminants, increasing the air distribution and circulation in the building and making sure the air is cleaner using up-to-date filters and cleaner vents.

 

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Indoor Air Facts No. 4 - Sick Building Syndrome.