The term Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is commonly used to describe situations where people feel unwell or uncomfortable while inside a building. In many cases, the phrase is applied loosely whenever occupants report headaches, fatigue, irritation, or other non-specific symptoms. While this usage is widespread, it often lacks clarity and can lead to misunderstanding about what Sick Building Syndrome actually represents.

​

Sick Building Syndrome is not a medical diagnosis, nor is it a statement that a building itself is inherently unsafe or unfit for use. In professional indoor air quality practice, SBS is best understood as a descriptive term, used when groups of occupants experience similar symptoms that appear linked to time spent inside a building and tend to improve when they leave the space.

​

Importantly, the presence of symptoms alone does not mean a building is “sick.” People can feel unwell in a building for many reasons unrelated to the indoor environment, including stress, dehydration, infections, allergies, or underlying health conditions. Because SBS-related symptoms are non-specific, they are frequently misattributed or overinterpreted when viewed in isolation.

​

From a technical perspective, Sick Building Syndrome functions as an indicator, not a diagnosis. It signals that indoor environmental conditions may warrant further evaluation, rather than defining a specific problem or cause. The term does not describe severity, risk level, or outcome. Instead, it highlights the need to better understand how a building is performing from an indoor air quality and occupant comfort standpoint.

​

Sick Building Syndrome is sometimes perceived as a label that automatically implies a dangerous or uninhabitable building. In reality, the term does not determine how serious a situation is. Some SBS-related concerns may be mild and easily managed, while others may point to more significant underlying issues. Appropriate response depends on evidence and professional judgement rather than assumption or alarm.

​

Biological factors such as mould are often discussed in relation to Sick Building Syndrome, but their presence alone does not define SBS. Mould is naturally present indoors and outdoors, and its relevance depends on context, exposure, and how occupants are affected. In warm, humid climates such as Jamaica, moisture-related conditions may increase awareness of indoor environmental discomfort, but this still requires careful interpretation. For a clearer explanation of what mould is, why it occurs, and how it can affect indoor air quality, see our related article on mould in buildings.

​

For building owners and managers, understanding what Sick Building Syndrome is and what it is not is critical. Treating all indoor discomfort as SBS can lead to unnecessary concern, while dismissing recurring patterns can delay meaningful action. Clear definitions help organisations respond appropriately, protect occupant comfort, and make informed decisions about their indoor environments.

​

Air Quality Measurement Systems Limited (AQMSL) supports commercial and institutional clients in understanding indoor air quality concerns that are often labelled as Sick Building Syndrome, bringing clarity to a term that is frequently misunderstood.