Sick Building Syndrome — It’s a Valid Concern
According to the Environment Protection Agency, Sick Building Syndrome is a very real problem. “The term “sick building syndrome” (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.”
The causes of SBS can vary, and may include:
- Inadequate Ventilation. The amount of outdoor air per person being distributed through the building’s HVAC system isn’t at an acceptable level.
- Chemical Contaminants. Substances containing high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be harmful. These include cleaning agents, tobacco smoke, paint, adhesives, pesticides, and certain materials used in upholstery and carpeting. Other pollutants, like car exhaust fumes, may also be transmitted from outside through a faulty ventilation system.
- Biological Contaminants. Mold, mildew, pollen and airborne viruses are examples of these types of contaminants. They can live and breed in upholstery, carpeting and accumulate in areas where there is standing water or moisture.
Health Effects of Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome can result in negative health effects to those who inhabit or frequent the affected building. Particular areas that are vulnerable are the skin, respiratory, and neurological systems. Because many SBS symptoms also simulate those of other illnesses, like a cold or flu, they are often misdiagnosed. The key is to determine if the symptoms don’t go away or get worse when you’re in the building.
Here are some of the many possible signs of SBS symptoms:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Hoarseness or cough
- Bloating
- Gas
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Muscle discomfort (stiffness, pain, cramps, aches)
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- Nosebleeds
- Itching
- Skin rash
- Eye irritation
- Sore throat
- Swelling of legs, trunk, and/or ankles
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pains
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Mental changes (problems with concentration, memory, moods)
It’s important to note that the severity of the symptoms will vary by individual. Those with compromised immune systems, or who already suffer from other health problems, like asthma, allergies and other chronic illnesses may be more seriously compromised.
Treating Sick Building Syndrome
The logical and most obvious solution to avoiding the effects of SBS is to avoid being in the affected building or area. However, often that’s not an option. When a person works in an environment where SBS is present, it’s not that simple to quit their jobs. The best solution is to remove the causes of SBS.
St. Louis Cleaning & Restoration offers that solution. They are an exclusive service provider for mPact Environmental Solutions®. Using a 3-step process of diagnostics, treatment, and prevention, they will apply mPale to all surfaces. mPale is a colorless, odorless coating that provides a microscopic barrier and bonds permanently until it is painted or covered. This protects the surfaces from fungal, viral and bacterial contaminants. This solution includes annual inspections and remediation if any issues are found.
Mold Remediation
St. Louis Cleaning & Restoration is also a professional, experienced mold remediation company. Mold is one of the many causes of SBS and can be detrimental to the health of the building’s occupants, as well as compromise its structure.
Getting rid of mold involves more than just cleaning the area where it appears. Often it is in hidden areas where special equipment and procedures are needed to detect. St. Louis Cleaning & Restoration has the resources and experience to detect, test and remediate all traces of mold to restore the building and make it safe and healthy again.
Call on the Experts
St. Louis Cleaning & Restoration has been around since 1991, serving home and business owners in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. In addition to SBS remediation, they offer professional restoration and remediation services, including:
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Water Damage Restoration (including basements and other flooding)
- Mold Remediation
- Commercial Air Duct Cleaning
- Commercial Kitchen Hood and Exhaust Cleaning
- Trauma Scene Cleanup
They are available 24/7 for emergency services.
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