Understanding Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) with PlanRadar

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a growing concern in various types of buildings worldwide, significantly affecting occupant health, productivity, and even property values. In an exclusive interview with The Exchange Asia, Vitaly Berezka and Avtandil Mekudishvili, Regional Spokespeople for PlanRadar, delved into the pressing issue of SBS, highlighting its prevalence and the challenges it poses to building occupants, businesses, and property owners alike.

According to Berezka, the symptoms of SBS—ranging from headaches and respiratory issues to fatigue and emotional distress—are widespread.

“We are seeing that Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) symptoms, such as headaches, respiratory issues, fatigue, and emotional distress, are affecting 57% of occupants in office buildings, 31% in university laboratories, and 23-41% in university administrative buildings globally,” Berezka shared.

He further explained that the issue is particularly pronounced in newly constructed or renovated buildings due to off-gassing from new materials, combined with poor ventilation systems. “Up to 60% of workers in newly built or recently renovated buildings are impacted by SBS,” he noted, pointing out that indoor air pollution from new materials, coupled with inadequate ventilation, can make these environments particularly unhealthy.

Key Indicators of SBS

Mekudishvili emphasised the importance of monitoring indoor air quality as a key diagnostic tool for SBS. “One of the primary indicators that building occupants or owners should watch for is ventilation efficiency,” he stated. “Poor air circulation or malfunctioning HVAC systems can cause a buildup of pollutants like carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to health problems.” Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, and respiratory issues, which often signal that the building’s air quality is compromised.

To address these issues, Mekudishvili highlighted the importance of regular maintenance.“Ensuring that HVAC systems are functioning correctly, with proper filtration and ventilation, is essential to maintaining healthy indoor air quality,” he added. “Proactively checking for excess humidity and mold growth can also help identify and resolve SBS-related issues before they escalate.”

The Economic Impact of SBS

The consequences of SBS extend well beyond individual health concerns. As Berezka explained, businesses operating in SBS-affected buildings can face significant economic repercussions. “SBS can lead to reduced focus and concentration among employees, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates,” he said. “These factors not only affect employee well-being but also contribute to a decline in overall productivity.” Health complaints such as respiratory problems, headaches, and fatigue can lead to dissatisfaction in the workplace, further exacerbating turnover and absenteeism.

In addition to productivity losses, the financial toll of SBS on businesses can be severe. Mekudishvili warned of the long-term costs. “When SBS is left unaddressed, healthcare costs can skyrocket due to frequent doctor visits, sick days, and long-term health issues among employees,” he said. “There’s also a reliance on short-term disability claims, which can put an additional strain on company health plans and worker compensation schemes.”

Moreover, SBS can have a direct impact on property value. “Buildings with poor indoor air quality or SBS-related issues can become less attractive to potential tenants or buyers,” Mekudishvili cautioned. “As businesses move out to seek healthier environments, property owners face increased vacancies and potential loss of rental income, leading to devaluation. The costs of reactive repairs or retrofitting can also add significant financial strain.”

Preventative Strategies for SBS

To combat the pervasive effects of SBS, Berezka stressed the importance of proactive measures in building design and maintenance. “The most effective preventative strategies include choosing low-emission, non-toxic building materials and furnishings,” Berezka advised. “By selecting products that release fewer VOCs, such as eco-friendly paints, carpets, and office furniture, building managers can greatly reduce indoor air pollution.”

In regions with high humidity, moisture management is also critical. “Proactively addressing leaks, ensuring proper drainage, and maintaining optimal humidity levels can prevent mold growth, which is a major contributor to SBS,” Berezka continued. “Installing moisture barriers, sealing windows, and regularly inspecting roofing systems are all essential steps in maintaining a healthy indoor environment.”

Leveraging Technology for Healthier Buildings

Mekudishvili further elaborated on the role of digital solutions in preventing SBS.

“Platforms like PlanRadar can provide real-time monitoring of key factors such as air quality, ventilation, and moisture levels,” he explained. “These tools enable building managers to be proactive in their maintenance, preventing major repairs by catching issues early, and ensuring that defects are addressed quickly.”

The advantages of digital platforms extend to the identification of recurring problems. “PlanRadar allows facility managers to track patterns and trends, which supports more effective long-term planning,” Mekudishvili added. “By streamlining communication between teams and stakeholders, these tools improve collaboration and make it easier to maintain a healthy building.”

Future Trends in Building Technology

Looking ahead, both Berezka and Mekudishvili see exciting potential in emerging technologies that could further mitigate SBS. “We are witnessing advancements in smart air quality systems, advanced HVAC filtration technologies, and AI-driven building management systems,” said Mekudishvili. “These innovations will allow for predictive maintenance, ensuring that potential SBS-related issues are addressed before they affect occupants.”

Berezka pointed to the future of building materials as a critical area of development. “We’re seeing the emergence of smart materials that can adjust to environmental conditions and detect pollutants,” he said. “There’s also growing interest in biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into buildings to promote healthier indoor environments.”

Sick Building Syndrome is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to mitigate its effects on health, productivity, and property value. As Berezka and Mekudishvili explained, a combination of proactive building design, regular maintenance, and cutting-edge digital tools is essential in combating SBS. By prioritizing indoor air quality and embracing technological solutions, businesses and property managers can create healthier, more productive spaces that benefit both occupants and the bottom line.