PINPOINTING SYMPTOMS

Identifying problems affecting indoor air quality

Indoor and outdoor contaminants are the main factors contributing to poor air quality in buildings. Indoor contaminants are generated by occupants and their activities, various kinds of equipment in use and the type of building materials found in a building. Outdoor contaminants enter a building through the ventilation system.

Adverse impacts on heath

The first group of health problems known as sick building syndrome (SBS) is characterized by non specific symptoms attributable to indoor air quality problems such as:

• Irritation of mucous membranes: irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
• Neurotoxic symptoms: headaches, fatigue, problems in concentrating and irritability.
• Asthma and asthma-like symptoms: chest discomfort, wheezing.
• Skin problems: irritated, dry skin
• Gastrointestinal problems: diarrhoea
• Etc.

The second group is characterized by specific health problems caused by known biological or chemical contaminants.

• Biological contaminants (bacteria, mould, etc.) are the source of respiratory infections such as Legionnaire’s Disease, as well as some immunological diseases, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, humidifier fever, asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• Chemical contaminants entering the building from outdoor or indoor sources (carbon monoxide, ozone, volatile organic compounds, etc.) sometimes cause specific respiratory problems.