Headaches, fatigue, nausea… sound familiar? If your employees or tenants are suddenly feeling under the weather, your building might be the culprit. No, it’s not haunted, but it could be harboring Building-Related Illnesses (BRIs).
Unlike the vague discomfort of Sick Building Syndrome, BRIs are diagnosed illnesses with identifiable causes lurking within your walls. From Legionnaires’ disease to asthma triggers, these hidden foes can impact not just well-being, but productivity and morale.
Unveiling the Enemy:
- Legionnaires’ Disease: This potentially fatal illness stems from inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria, which thrive in showerheads, faucets, and cooling towers. Regular maintenance and adherence to guidelines like ASHRAE 12-2020 & 188-2018 are crucial for keeping it at bay.
- Asthma: Office air can be rife with mold spores, fumes, and dust mites – all asthma triggers. Implementing regular HEPA vacuuming, prompt spill cleanup, eco-friendly cleaning products, and HEPA air purifiers can make a world of difference.
- Inhalation fevers: Humidifiers gone rogue, noxious cleaning chemicals, even metal fumes – these seemingly disparate elements can all trigger a range of reactions. Identifying and eliminating the source (cleaning your humidifier with vinegar, for example) is key.
Separating Fact from Fiction:
- Lung Cancer & Asbestosis: While linked to building conditions, these illnesses typically take years to manifest after exposure and fall outside the scope of BRIs.
- Placebo Effect: Not everything is a physical threat. Belief alone can trigger symptoms (like those associated with mold) – emphasizing open communication and factual resources can help alleviate anxieties.
- COVID-19: Though not an official BRI, its airborne transmission is heavily influenced by building ventilation. Active air purification technologies proven to eliminate 99.99% of the airborne virus behind COVID-19 in a minute, can offer an extra layer of defense.
Taking Action:
BRIs might be complex, but solutions exist. technology tackles not just airborne threats, but also surface-dwelling pathogens, offering comprehensive protection. Our experts can provide customized solutions that target a range of contaminants, from mold and bacteria to viruses and VOCs.
Don’t let your building compromise your health and well-being. Contact today and breathe easy in a healthier, more productive environment.
Remember, a healthy office starts with clean air. Take the first step towards a healthier work environment for your employees and tenants.
See articles below.
https://www.wondermakers.com/Portals/0/docs/Sick%20building%20syndrome%20by%20WHO.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/wmp/index.html
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq
