However, a review of the literature regarding the role of mycotoxins and
building-related illness found case definitions are inconclusive.
With indoor air quality (IAQ) problems and building-related illnesses increasingly conspicuous in the media, should IAQ be routinely included in these assessments?
The EPA estimates that these building-related illnesses cost tens of billions of dollars per year in lost productivity.
Eye, nose, and/or throat irritation Headaches Fatigue Nausea Nose bleeds Nasal congestion Difficulty in breathing Dry skin Irritability Flu-like symptoms Figure 2 Examples of
building-related illnessesBiological contaminants that may induce SBS or
building-related illness include mold, pollen and viruses.
Although occupants of moisture-damaged buildings may experience increased respiratory symptoms (1), the clinical importance of moisture damage remains unclear in situations where occupants report nonspecific building-related illnesses (2).
Building-related illnesses include a variety of recognized disease entities that are characterized by objective clinical findings related to specific exposures in the indoor environment (2).
The other issue related to
building-related illnesses is Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), which is non-specific and is related to the quality of circulating indoor air.
Hence, ventilation is by far the most common cause of sick building syndrome and
building-related illnesses.
Summary: Poor air quality management and ventilation put you at high risk of building-related illnesses
Some building-related illnesses have a causative relationship with poor building conditions.
Environmental Protection Agency report, the average worker spends nearly 90% of his/her time indoors, and
building-related illnesses cost organizations tens of billions of dollars every year.
