Sick building syndrome

Sick building syndrome is the name for symptoms you only get while in a particular building, usually an office.

Check if you have sick building syndrome

Symptoms of sick building syndrome get worse the longer you're in a particular building and get better after you leave.

Other people in the building may also have symptoms.

Possible symptoms include:

• headaches
• blocked or runny nose
• dry, itchy skin
• dry, sore eyes
• rashes
• tiredness and difficulty concentrating

How to ease the symptoms yourself

It might help to:

• open windows to improve ventilation, if you can
• not set the temperature too high (aim for about 19C) and don't change it lots of times during the day
• try to reduce workplace stress
• take regular screen breaks if you use a computer
• go outside for some fresh air during lunchtime and other breaks

Try these things to see if your symptoms improve.

If you think you have sick building syndrome, speak to:

• your manager or employer – if you get symptoms at work
• the building manager or owner (such as the landlord) – if you get symptoms in another building

They should look into the problem and try to find a solution.

Causes of sick building syndrome

It's not clear exactly what causes sick building syndrome.

It's probably due to a combination of things, including:

• poor ventilation or poorly maintained air conditioning systems
• dust, smoke, fumes or fabric fibres in the air
• bright or flickering lights

Sick building syndrome is most common in open-plan offices, but you can get it in any building.