HEALTH-CARE-INDUSTRY

INFLUENCE OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND PERSONAL FACTORS ON THE SICK BUILDING SYNDROME (SBS) IN SWEDISH GERIATRIC HOSPITALS

The relation between symptoms of sick building syndrome (SBS) and measured physical environment in hospitals was examined, along with the influence of personal factors on such symptoms. The study cohort included 225 female hospital workers. A relationship was demonstrated between eye irritation and work stress, and self reported exposure to static electricity. A higher level of eye irritation was also reported in buildings where there was a high ventilation flow and a high noise level coming from the ventilation system. a Nasal symptoms were only related to asthma and hay fever. Throat symptoms were more common among smokers, subjects with asthma or hay fever, in new buildings, and in buildings with a high ventilation flow. Facial skin irritation was related to a lack of control of the work conditions and was more common in new buildings and buildings with a high ventilation flow and ventilation noise. Headache and fatigue were related to current smoking, asthma or hay fever, work dissatisfaction and static electricity.

Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 52(3):170-176, 1995. (25 references)

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