Dirty Air in My Commercial Office Building

If you don’t feel like yourself at work, there may be a reason, and, you aren’t alone.  Many office workers frequently complain about:

• dry or burning sinuses, eyes, and throat
• sneezing
• stuffy or runny nose
• fatigue or lethargy
• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• irritability
• forgetfulness

This phenomenon can be caused by what the E.P.A. has termed “building-related illnesses”.  According to several World Health Organization experts, “Over 30% of new or remodeled commercial buildings have high rates of health and comfort complaints from occupants that may be related to poor indoor air quality”.  Just image the instances inside older buildings!

If you think your office building has poor air quality, there are several things you can do.  The first step is to talk to co-workers to see if they are experiencing any problems.  Next, see your physician to rule out any other possibilities.  Finally, bring the matter to your supervisor and encourage that person to talk to the building manager or owner about the concerns.  Of course, follow-up frequently to make sure the problem is being addressed.