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Sick Building Syndrome: Why You Need Commercial Cleaning and Sanitizing

These days, we spend up to 90% of our time indoors, a significant portion of which is in commercial buildings, be it offices, schools, or healthcare facilities.

These environments are meant to be comfortable, healthy, and productive spaces, but this is only possible with the proper commercial cleaning and sanitizing routines.

Without sufficient cleaning, commercial buildings can become breeding grounds for a phenomenon known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).

In this blog post, we will delve into what SBS is, its signs, and how commercial cleaning and sanitizing can play a pivotal role in ensuring a safer and healthier indoor environment.

What is Sick Building Syndrome and How Can Commercial Cleaning and Sanitizing Help?

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a situation in which people experience acute symptoms linked to the conditions of the building in which they spend much of their time.

These symptoms cannot be traced to any specific illness, and they often subside when individuals leave the building.

Although SBS isn't classified as a specific illness, it can cause significant, usually temporary, health problems.

SBS is caused by numerous structural and environmental factors in a building, including:

• Inadequate ventilation
• Chemical contaminants (often from cleaning or other products containing VOCs)
• Biological contaminants (bacteria, moulds, pollen and viruses)

Proper commercial cleaning and sanitizing are key players in mitigating the effects of Sick Building Syndrome.

Regular cleaning and sanitizing of commercial spaces help in removing and preventing the buildup of chemical and biological contaminants like pollutants, allergens, and pathogens.

As well, opting for or switching to a green cleaning program can eliminate a significant source of chemical contamination.

This, in turn, contributes to better indoor air quality and reduces the risk of health issues associated with SBS.

What are the Signs of Sick Building Syndrome?

Identifying the signs of Sick Building Syndrome is essential for prompt intervention.

These symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common indicators include:

• Respiratory Issues: Occupants may experience irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches or migraines while inside the building can be a sign of SBS.
• Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue, even after a full night's sleep, can be attributed to the indoor environment.
• Skin Problems: Skin rashes, dryness, or itching may develop as a result of exposure to pollutants.
• Nausea and Dizziness: Some individuals may experience nausea, dizziness, or general discomfort while inside the building.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Decreased cognitive function and difficulty concentrating are often reported by those affected by SBS.

These symptoms can be mild or severe and may vary in intensity depending on the extent of indoor pollution.

It's crucial to note that while these symptoms can mimic other health conditions, they often improve or disappear when individuals leave the affected building.

How Can You Make Your Commercial Environment Safer for Everyone?

Creating a safer commercial environment requires a multifaceted approach.

Here are some strategies that can help mitigate Sick Building Syndrome:

1. Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is critical for maintaining good indoor air quality. Ensure that your HVAC systems are well-maintained and provide sufficient fresh air circulation.
2. Regular Cleaning and Sanitizing: Implement a consistent green cleaning and sanitizing schedule for your commercial space. This helps remove dust, allergens, and pathogens that can contribute to SBS.
3. Plants: Indoor plants can act as natural air purifiers by absorbing pollutants and increasing oxygen levels. Consider incorporating them into your workspace.
4. Natural Light: Maximizing natural light in your building can improve mood and well-being among occupants.
5. Reduce Chemical Use: Minimize the use of harsh cleaning chemicals and opt for eco-friendly alternatives to reduce indoor air pollution.
6. Educate Occupants: Raise awareness among building occupants about the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment.

What is the Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting?

Understanding the distinction between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting is important when it comes to maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

We may sometimes feel the need to go full tilt to eliminate dirt and bacteria, but this isn’t typically necessary.

• Cleaning: Cleaning involves the removal of all foreign material from a surface, including dirt, dust, and debris. It does not necessarily kill germs, but is an essential first step in the process since sanitizing and disinfecting do not actually clean surfaces.
• Sanitizing: Sanitizing reduces 99.9% of microorganisms on surfaces, bringing the environment to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. Sanitizing is often used in food preparation areas and on high-touch surfaces.
• Disinfecting: Disinfecting kills or eliminates a broader range of germs on surfaces. Disinfectants eliminate 99.999% of pathogens. The disinfectant also has to remain on the surface for 10 minutes to get the job done. Disinfecting is typically only necessary in healthcare settings or during outbreaks of contagious diseases.

Feeling at Home in Your Work Environment

Everyone wants to feel like they can relax and focus on their work when at the office. Knowing you don't have to worry about the cleanliness of your desk and computer, the quality of the air, and the germs on high-contact surfaces is necessary. 

Make sure your cleaners provide thorough details on how they will address the cleaning and disinfecting needs of your environment and how they will maintain good air quality. If they can't, find someone who can.