Office workers in high-rise buildings are prone to developing “sick building syndrome” due to poor air circulation. They may experience respiratory and joint-related illnesses…
Symptoms such as feeling suffocated, shortness of breath, headaches, joint pain, muscle fatigue, dry throat, coughing, sneezing, dry skin, itching, and drowsiness are common among those who live or work for extended periods in confined, well-furnished high-rise buildings. However, these symptoms often disappear quickly once they leave the building, which leads many to avoid seeking medical attention. Instead, they often resort to over-the-counter medications for colds, eye drops for dryness, or topical treatments like menthol ointments or moisturizing creams…
A recent survey conducted by the Ministry of Health on 305 employees from postal and banking services revealed that over 27% reported pain and discomfort in their arms, wrists, and hands; 74% frequently experienced sore and dry throats; 75-85% suffered from eye strain; 73% had headaches and dizziness; 30% experienced chest tightness and shortness of breath; and 39% reported dry skin and itching…
The primary cause of these issues is the lack of air circulation in rooms of high-rise buildings, leading to a working and living environment that is deficient in oxygen and contaminated by equipment and furnishings. Medical professionals refer to these symptoms collectively as “Sick Building Syndrome.”
This syndrome has been acknowledged in medicine for many years, particularly with the rise of high-rise buildings equipped with modern amenities. The air in these rooms is often recirculated through air conditioning systems, creating favorable conditions for the proliferation of harmful anaerobic bacteria. A notable investigation by the World Health Organization in 1976 in the United States revealed that during a party at the Bellevue Stratford Hotel, 29 individuals died from pneumonia after inhaling the bacterium Legionella pneumophila present in the hotel’s ventilation system.
The World Health Organization warns that over 30% of high-rise buildings worldwide are classified as “sick” due to poor air quality. Recently, Professor Le Trung from the Institute of Occupational Health and Environmental Hygiene confirmed that modern, well-furnished rooms are breeding grounds for bacteria harmful to health.
Signs of fatigue, joint pain, headaches, sneezing, eye strain, and dry, itchy skin begin to manifest from this point. While these symptoms may dissipate once the person leaves the “sick environment,” if the root cause—cleaning the living environment and ensuring proper air circulation—is not addressed, these manifestations can evolve into chronic health issues requiring long-term treatment.
The World Health Organization summarizes three primary factors contributing to health issues caused by “sick buildings.” Toxic substances from cigarette smoke, wall paints, carpets, photocopiers, fax machines, computers, and treated wood can emit harmful gases such as CO2, radon, ozone, and formaldehyde, as well as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can lead to respiratory diseases. Additionally, toxic chemicals from vehicle exhaust can infiltrate the ventilation systems of high-rise buildings. Biological factors such as pollen, bacteria, viruses, and mold thrive, particularly in ventilation ducts, ceilings, and carpets, causing fever, chest pain, joint pain, dry throat, coughing, and sinusitis.
To prevent these syndromes, architects must consider designing interior ventilation systems that allow for air exchange with the outside environment. Ventilation outlets should be located away from parking areas. Air filters should be kept dry and clean. Living and working spaces should be thoroughly cleaned (ceilings, walls) annually. Areas should avoid contact with freshly painted walls, as some paints may contain lead.
Office equipment such as computers, photocopiers, and fax machines should be arranged according to manufacturer guidelines, ensuring they are placed in well-ventilated areas and regularly dusted. For individuals who frequently live or work in “sick buildings,” it is essential to spend at least one hour each day breathing fresh air outside, engaging in physical activities, or performing simple exercises in well-ventilated spaces to alleviate symptoms of fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and eye strain…
