How to Prevent Sick Building Syndrome With Facility Management

Few issues are as important as the health and well-being of customers and employees.

One threat to your company’s health is sick-building syndrome (SBS). Partnering with a team like Omnia360 means creating safe indoor environments that foster productivity, comfort, and health.

What Is Sick Building Syndrome?

Sick building syndrome describes symptoms experienced by people who spend time in one building or area of the building without any identifiable cause.

These symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat. While the exact cause of SBS is often elusive, it’s widely attributed to poor indoor air quality and other environmental factors within the building.

What Causes Sick Building Syndrome?

Several factors contribute to the development of sick building syndrome:

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Inadequate ventilation can increase indoor pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, and other allergens. These contaminants can trigger respiratory issues and exacerbate existing health conditions.

Biological Contaminants

Damp, humid environments are an ideal breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other biological contaminants. Exposure to mold and bacteria can lead to respiratory problems and allergic reactions, contributing to SBS symptoms.

Chemical Pollutants

Certain building materials, furnishings, and cleaning products release chemicals into the air, known as off-gassing. Prolonged exposure to chemicals can cause respiratory irritation and other health issues.

Poor Ergonomics and Comfort

Inadequate lighting, uncomfortable temperatures, and poorly designed workspaces can contribute to discomfort and fatigue, exacerbating SBS symptoms like headaches.

How Can Facility Management Services Prevent Sick Building Syndrome?

Sick building syndrome is multifaceted, so the best approach to tackling unhealthy indoor environments is a holistic facility management strategy.

Here’s how our services can help prevent SBS:

1. HVAC services: Our experienced technicians conduct regular maintenance and inspections of HVAC systems to ensure performance and indoor air quality are up to standards.

These services include cleaning and replacing air filters, checking for leaks or ductwork issues, and calibrating thermostat settings for comfort and efficiency.

2. Cleaning services: We employ eco-friendly cleaning practices and products to eliminate dust, dirt, and other contaminants from indoor surfaces.

To minimize the risk of SBS-causing pollutants, comprehensive janitorial services encompass all building areas, including high-touch surfaces, carpets, upholstery, and ventilation systems.

3. Indoor air quality monitoring: We utilize advanced monitoring technology to assess indoor air quality levels and identify potential sources of contamination.

Monitoring key indicators such as humidity, temperature, and particulate matter concentrations can address issues before they escalate and impact occupant health.

4. Plumbing maintenance and leak detection: Plumbing maintenance prevents moisture buildup and water damage, which leads to mold growth and indoor air quality issues.

The team at Omnia360 conducts regular inspections of plumbing systems to identify leaks or water damage in pipes, fixtures, and surrounding areas. Proactive measures such as installing moisture sensors and leak detection systems can provide early warning of potential plumbing issues.

Contact Omnia360

Contact us at (833) 360-6642 to learn more about our comprehensive facility management services. We’ll help you create indoor environments that promote productivity and comfort.