Building-related illness

Building-related illness (BRI) refers to a range of health conditions that are directly linked to the physical environment of a building. These illnesses can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor indoor air quality, exposure to toxic materials, and inadequate ventilation.

Causes

The primary cause of building-related illness is poor indoor air quality. This can be due to a variety of factors, including inadequate ventilation, the presence of mold or other biological contaminants, and exposure to chemical contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and asbestos.

Inadequate ventilation can lead to a buildup of pollutants in the indoor air, which can cause a range of health problems. Biological contaminants such as mold and bacteria can also contribute to building-related illness, particularly in buildings with high humidity levels or water damage.

Chemical contaminants can also cause building-related illness. These can include VOCs, which are emitted by a wide range of products including paints, cleaning supplies, and building materials, and asbestos, which was widely used in building materials until its health risks became known.

Symptoms

The symptoms of building-related illness can vary widely depending on the specific cause and the individual's sensitivity to it. However, common symptoms can include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, sinus congestion, cough, dizziness, nausea, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. In some cases, individuals may also experience skin irritation or rashes.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing building-related illness primarily involves improving indoor air quality. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, including increasing ventilation, controlling humidity levels, and reducing exposure to chemical and biological contaminants.

Treatment for building-related illness typically involves removing the individual from the affected environment and treating the specific symptoms. In some cases, it may also be necessary to remediate the building to remove the source of the illness.

See Also

• Sick building syndrome
• Indoor air quality
• Occupational health

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