:Supervised by Dr.

Elham

:Done by Iman A. Bataweel

Outlines:

Definition Symptoms Causes solutions

Definition:

(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.

Symptoms:

Eyes, nose or throat irritation Headache Dizziness and nauseas Dry cough Dry itchy skin difficulty in concentrating fatigue sensitivity to odors.

Causes of SBS

:Inadequate ventilation- 1
In early 90s: approximately 15 cubic feet per minute (cfm) After 1973: to 5 cfm per occupant Nowadays: 15 cfm of outdoor air per person (20 cfm/person in office

2- Chemical contaminants from indoor sources:

Tobacco smoke Radon Asbestos Lead Combustion gases Water pollution Household chemicals Pesticides Allergens

3- Chemical contaminants from outdoor sources:

and building exhausts (e.g., bathrooms and kitchens) nearby garage.

4- Biological contaminants:

MOLDs and dust mits insects or bird droppings Bacteria and viruses

These elements may act in combination, and may supplement other complaints such as inadequate temperature, humidity, or lighting. Even after a building investigation, however, the specific causes of the complaints may remain unknown.

Solutions to Sick Building Syndrome

1- Pollutant source removal or modification

2- Increasing ventilation rates

Solutions to Sick Building Syndrome

*Change furnace filter monthly. *Run the bathroom vent fan when showering to discourage mold growth. *Clean the humidifier and air conditioning drain pans. Fill humidifiers with distilled or demineralized water. *Don't smoke. *Air out new carpet, drapes and furniture before bringing them inside. *Keep gutters clean to avoid moisture from penetrating. *Regularly clean and tune all fuel-burning appliances and fireplaces. *Wash bedding materials frequently in hot water to

References:

http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/sbs.html

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art

http://www.jweekly.com/article/full/5837/tre

!Thank you & stay healthy