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Sick Building Syndrome

The term Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when occupants in a building suffer illness and other adverse health effects from an unknown cause, but appear to regain their health once they leave the building. The adverse health effects can include skin, eye and throat irritations, headaches, fatigue, nausea and difficulty concentrating.

If you think you may be suffering from Sick Building Syndrome at your place of employment, school or other building, contact an attorney in your area. A lawyer experienced in handling SBS cases can discuss your legal options with you.

Causes of SBS

There are several factors that have been cited as leading to SBS, including:

• Inadequate ventilation: in an effort to conserve costs and make buildings more energy efficient, the quality of indoor ventilation has decreased in many buildings. This can occur for a number of reasons, including malfunctioning, poorly-maintained or defective heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, buildings constructed providing minimal cubic feet per minute of outside air for building occupants and buildings converted for uses they weren't intended for.
• Chemical contaminants: chemical contaminants can enter a building from indoor or outdoor sources. Most of the time, the chemical contaminant comes from an indoor source, such as building materials, furniture, carpeting, office equipment and supplies (i.e. copy machines). Airtight buildings that circulate indoor air can compound the problems caused by chemical contaminants by trapping them inside the building.
• Biological contaminants: SBS also can be caused by biological contaminants, like mold, viruses, bacteria and pollen. If water is allowed to accumulate in air ducts, pipes, drains or elsewhere, it creates a breeding ground for biological contaminants, especially toxic mold. Symptoms suffered by those exposed to biological contaminants can range from mild skin and eye irritations to allergic reactions, fevers and headaches.

Who is Responsible for SBS?

Depending on the circumstances of the case, the potential liable parties for Sick Building Syndrome may include:

• Building owners, managers and/or landlords
• Space planners
• Furniture and equipment suppliers and manufacturers
• Designers
• Construction professionals (contractors, subcontractors, architects)
• Installers and maintenance personnel of the HVAC systems

Conclusion

SBS cases can be difficult to prove because the symptoms can be generic and attributable to many causes. The cases also can be expensive to litigate because testimony from experts in many fields may be required to prove the case. It is important to seek experienced legal advice when considering filing a SBS case.

Contact an attorney in your area for more information on Sick Building Syndrome. An experienced toxic tort lawyer can evaluate your claim and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

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