Sick Building Syndrome

If you work in an office or other closed environment with many other people, you may have witnessed illnesses spread through the office, usually caused by a bacteria or virus. But there is another type of illness that can strike everyone in an office. The term ‘sick building syndrome’ refers to a number of symptoms affecting people whose workplaces have poor ventilation. This can include exposure to toxic chemicals, infectious pathogens, and serious allergens.

Adequate ventilation is necessary in any enclosed workplace, whether an office or a factory. Without ventilation, having many people occupy a single space can deplete oxygen levels and raise the temperature and humidity. In addition, toxic chemicals, dust, and other undesirable substances can accumulate, leading to a variety of symptoms. Cleaning products or other chemicals that give off fumes can be toxic to humans, and lack of ventilation can lead to the buildup of vapors in a building.

Since the specific causes of sick building syndrome depend on the environment, the symptoms can vary as well. Excessive humidity can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria in the walls and ventilation system, which can then give off toxic chemicals or cause infection in workers. Inhalation of mold spores can lead to respiratory infections, especially in people with weak immune systems. Many people have mold allergies, sometimes serious ones, which can in some cases lead to hospitalization.

Contact Us

If you, a loved one, or coworkers have fallen seriously ill because of poor ventilation in the workplace, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation for your medical expenses and time off. The compassionate Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. can help you. To discuss your case with an experienced lawyer, contact us today at 800-876-LAWYER