Sick Building Syndrome is a hidden problem that affects many people in Singapore. It tends to be overlooked or confused with other conditions. The majority of the people in a busy city like ours spend the day indoors in air-conditioned areas, whether it is at work, at school, or at home. This implies that we spend long hours each day breathing the same indoor air.
If a building is not properly cleaned, maintained, or ventilated, the air inside can become unhealthy. This may lead to health issues even when the place appears clean. If you feel unwell in a certain place, like your office or flat, but feel better after leaving, you may be experiencing Sick Building Syndrome in Singapore.
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Let’s take a look at five warning signs to watch for.
What Is Sick Building Syndrome?
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a condition where people feel sick or uncomfortable while spending time inside a building. The symptoms normally vanish outside the building.
It occurs more frequently in buildings that are tightly closed and those with central air conditioning systems. These are offices, malls, schools, hospitals, and homes. Air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, dust, mold spores and chemicals can accumulate in these spaces. In the long run, your health can be compromised by breathing this air.
The causes of Sick Building Syndrome vary, but constant bad ventilation, high moisture levels, molds, and air containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common. These wastes accumulate gradually in the buildings and begin to impair the health of individuals who utilize the facility on a regular basis.
1. Frequent Headaches and Tiredness
One of the first Sick Building Syndrome signs is getting headaches often or feeling tired all the time. This may happen even if you’ve had enough sleep.
In Singapore, many buildings are sealed to keep the heat out. But without fresh air, the air inside becomes stale. The amount of carbon dioxide increases, and the amount of oxygen decreases. This can make you feel sluggish or give you a headache.
Office machines like printers and photocopiers also release harmful chemicals called VOCs. These chemicals lower air quality and make symptoms worse. If you feel better after stepping outside, it may be a sign the building is causing your problems.
2. Breathing Problems or Worsening Allergies
Do you cough, sneeze, or wheeze more when you’re indoors? That could be another warning sign. These symptoms may mean there’s poor indoor air quality.
Singapore’s humid weather helps mold and mildew grow in hidden places like behind walls or inside air vents. Airborne mold spores may cause lung irritation, particularly when you have asthma or an allergy. Dirty air-con units and filters can also spread dust and mold.
If these symptoms go away after you leave the building, you may be reacting to something in the air.
3. Itchy Skin or Rashes While Indoors
Sick Building Syndrome can also affect your skin. When you are indoors, you could find that your skin feels dry and itchy, or it might even break out in a rash.
Air conditioning can dry out the air and take moisture from your skin. VOCs from carpets, paint, or furniture can also cause skin irritation. If your skin feels better when you’re outside the building, that’s another clue the indoor air is not healthy.
People with eczema or sensitive skin are more likely to be affected.
4. Irritation in Eyes, Nose, or Throat
A sore throat, runny nose that comes and goes, or burning eyes may be due to indoor air pollution rather than a cold or allergy.
Dust, mold, and cleaning products release chemicals that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Bad smells or stuffy air may also be a sign.
If several people in the same place feel these symptoms, it’s very likely the building is the cause.
5. Trouble Concentrating and Mental Fog
Another overlooked sign of sick building syndrome is feeling mentally tired or foggy. You may find it hard to think clearly or stay focused.
Poor indoor air can reduce oxygen flow to the brain. This makes it harder to concentrate and slows your thinking. It may also affect your mood or make you feel sleepy.
In many offices in Singapore, people work under artificial lights in closed rooms. Without fresh air and sunlight, your brain doesn’t function at its best.
What You Can Do If You Suspect Sick Building Syndrome
If these signs sound familiar, don’t ignore them. Breathing poor-quality indoor air for a long time can lead to serious health problems. Here’s what you can do:
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Write Down Your Symptoms
Note when and where your symptoms appear. This can help you find patterns and talk to your building manager or employer.
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Test the Air Quality
Hire an indoor air quality (IAQ) expert. They can test for mold, carbon dioxide, humidity, and chemical levels. In Singapore, many companies offer this service.
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Clean the Air-Conditioning System
Make sure your air-con filters and ducts are cleaned regularly. This helps stop dust and mold from spreading.
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Let in Fresh Air
Open windows if you can. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens. Try to improve airflow whenever possible.
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Use Air Purifiers and Add Indoor Plants
There are air purifiers that eliminate small particles in the air by using HEPA filters. Indoor plants like snake plants or peace lilies also help clean the air naturally.
Conclusion
In a city like Singapore, where most buildings are sealed and air-conditioned, it’s easy to forget about indoor air quality. But even clean-looking spaces can cause health problems if the air is not fresh.
Look out for the early signs of Sick Building Syndrome, like tiredness, skin problems, breathing issues, and poor focus. If you feel better after leaving a certain building, it may be time to take action.
Whether you live in a condo, work in an office, or manage a facility, keeping indoor air clean and safe is important for everyone’s health.
