Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a real issue affecting workers across the UK, with symptoms like headaches, fatigue and irritation linked directly to indoor office environments.
A poorly maintained office could be silently harming your staff’s health, morale and productivity. In this blog, we’ll break down what Sick Building Syndrome is, why it matters and how you can prevent it through regular office cleaning.
What is sick building syndrome?
Sick Building Syndrome is a term used to describe a range of symptoms experienced by people who spend time in a particular building, usually workplace offices.
While SBS is not officially classified as a formal medical diagnosis, it is recognised by organisations such as the NHS and the World Health Organisation as a workplace-related health issue.
Common symptoms of sick building syndrome
Whether you’re an employee, employer, or part of a building management team, it’s important to recognise the signs of sick building syndrome early.
If people in your office frequently feel unwell for no obvious reason, the building itself could be to blame.
Typical signs of Sick Building Syndrome include:
- Headaches or dizziness
- Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Dry, itchy skin or eyes
- Irritation of the nose or throat
- Coughing or chest tightness
- Nausea
One of the biggest clues that SBS is the cause? These symptoms usually ease once people leave the building.
If left unaddressed, SBS can lead to higher rates of sick leave among employees, poor team morale, and even long-term health problems.
What causes sick building syndrome in offices?
Sick building syndrome is particularly common in office buildings, where large numbers of people work in enclosed spaces for long hours each day.
Sick Building Syndrome is typically caused by issues with the building’s environment or maintenance. These issues can make the air feel stuffy and the space uncomfortable. Here are some of the main causes:
Poor ventilation:
Many offices use air systems to control airflow. If these systems are old, broken or not strong enough for the number of people in the office, fresh air won’t be.
Dust and Allergens:
Carpets, office chairs and shared desks can collect dust, pollen and other allergens. Without regular cleaning, these can accumulate in the air, leading to sneezing, allergies, and breathing problems.
Mould and Damp Issues:
Leaks from windows, roofs or air conditioning units can cause damp patches. If not fixed, mould can grow behind walls and under flooring. Mould spores can affect breathing, trigger coughing and can make asthma worse.
Chemical Pollutants:
Every day office items such as cleaning sprays, printers, paint, and new carpets can release chemicals called VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). These can remain in the air and cause health issues, such as dizziness, headaches, or eye irritation, especially if there is not enough ventilation.
Uncomfortable working conditions:
Working in an office that’s too hot, too cold, too dry, or poorly lit can take a toll on employees’ comfort and health. Harsh artificial lighting or a lack of natural daylight can cause eye strain and fatigue. Inconsistent temperature control can also lead to discomfort, frustration and lower work performance. Even noise levels or lack of personal space can contribute to stress and burnout.
Inadequate cleaning practices:
Office kitchens, toilets, meeting rooms, and shared desks are high-traffic areas where bacteria and viruses can easily spread. If these spaces aren’t cleaned regularly or cleaning is done poorly, germs can quickly build up, contributing to SBS symptoms and general workplace illnesses.
How to deal with sick building syndrome in your office?
If your team often feels ill at work and symptoms improve when they leave the building, it’s time to act. These practical steps can help reduce or eliminate the causes of sick building syndrome:
Listen to Your Team: Encourage employees to report recurring symptoms. Multiple people experiencing similar issues is a strong sign that the environment needs attention.
Improve air quality: Regularly service HVAC systems and replace filters. Consider installing air purifiers or increasing access to fresh outdoor air.
Book a Professional Deep Clean: Surface cleaning isn’t enough. A scheduled deep clean removes hidden dust, allergens, and germs from carpets, upholstery, vents, and less accessible spaces.
Ditch Harsh Chemicals: Switch to non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products that don’t release harmful VOCs into the air.
Arrange a Building Health Check: Bring in a specialist to inspect for unseen issues, such as mould, air quality problems, or poor insulation.
How to prevent sick building syndrome?
The key to preventing Sick Building Syndrome is regular maintenance and consistent cleaning. Here’s what helps:
- Keep HVAC systems clean and serviced
- Book regular deep cleans by professionals
- Cut down on clutter and dust build-up
- Use eco-friendly cleaning products
- Clean high-touch areas daily (like desks, kitchens and toilets)
- Improve ventilation and let in fresh air
By taking these steps, you not only protect your staff’s health but also boost productivity, job satisfaction and morale. A healthier workplace leads to a more engaged and efficient team.
How ACS can help combat your sick building syndrome
At ACS, we understand that a clean office is a healthy office. Our tailored office cleaning services are designed to remove dust, allergens, bacteria and other pollutants that contribute to Sick Building Syndrome. We follow industry best practices and use eco-friendly products to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for your team.
Whether you manage a small office or an entire building, our expert office cleaners can help you create a cleaner, safer and healthier environment for your team.
Ready to make your office a healthier place to work?
Don’t let your office impact your team’s well-being. Take the first step towards a healthier workplace by getting in touch with ACS Office Cleaning today. You can book a site visit, request a free cleaning quote, or discuss your office cleaning needs.
Contact us today, and let’s create a workspace where your team can thrive.
