Sick Building Syndrome

Home > Cold & Flu Prevention > Sick Building Syndrome

Pillar 3 Sub-Hub

Sick Building Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes & Testing

Sick Building Syndrome describes a cluster of symptoms linked to time spent in a particular building, with no single identifiable cause. Clinical framing here is sourced from CDC, WHO, NHS and UK HSA — this hub connects that context to practical workplace action.

The term describes symptoms that improve when occupants leave the building and recur when they return — commonly linked to poor ventilation, indoor air pollutants, or biological contamination. It’s a building-level diagnosis, not an individual medical one; anyone experiencing persistent symptoms should speak with a healthcare provider.

Guides in this sub-hub

Symptoms

The common symptom pattern and what distinguishes it from other illness.

Causes

Ventilation, air quality, and biological contamination factors.

Testing

How buildings are assessed once symptom patterns are noticed.

What facilities teams can do

Ventilation and air quality are the primary levers — see our indoor air quality hub for purifier and HVAC guidance. Biological contamination on surfaces is addressed separately through disinfection services, and mould-related causes connect to our Germs 101 content on fungal contamination.

[ CTA FORM PLACEHOLDER ]

Insert Contact Form 7 / WPForms / Gravity Forms shortcode here before publishing

This is a sensitive health topic. The content on this page and its sub-pages is general information, not medical advice, and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.