FM newsroom – building maintenance, sick building syndrome. Ensuring the health and longevity of properties is crucial. Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a significant concern, leading to health issues from poor indoor environments. However, SBS has also emerged as a significant threat to property values.
SBS is a condition where building occupants experience health issues and discomfort that appear to be linked to time spent in a particular building. Symptoms can include headaches, eye irritation, fatigue, and respiratory problems.
SBS is reported to affect up to 60% of workers in newly constructed or recently renovated buildings due to off-gassing and air pollution from new materials, but overcrowded workspaces can be mentally exhausting.
The air we breathe
Indoor air pollution, caused by dust, smoke, and volatile substances, significantly impacts air quality, especially when compounded by inadequate ventilation. Inefficient HVAC systems exacerbate this issue by allowing high pollutant levels and failing to provide adequate air exchange.
Additionally, excess moisture fosters mould growth, leading to respiratory problems and allergies. Maintaining thermal comfort through proper heating and insulation is crucial for ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures.
Health, productivity and property value
The impact of these issues is significant, particularly on the health and productivity of people working in offices and other indoor environments, and can also lead to a devaluation of the property with a consequent loss of potential rental income – Construction Week points out.
It is estimated that up to 20% of buildings worldwide may have conditions leading to SBS. Addressing these physical and environmental factors is essential to ensure better overall health of occupants and to maintain the value of the building.
Smart maintenance
Digital real estate and facility management platforms can provide a simple solution for efficient property management. Digital building maintenance can contribute to a healthy indoor environment and increase property values.
A digital platform can help companies to have detailed monitoring, regular maintenance scheduling, rapid defect identification, enhanced communication and detailed data and analysis history.
Properties affected by sick building syndrome require targeted strategies to enhance their quality and market value. Innovative tools can provide a comprehensive solution, enabling precise planning, efficient resource utilisation, and improved communication.
“Digital real estate and facility management platforms are proving to be vital in identifying and mitigating the factors that contribute to sick building syndrome, such as poor air quality and inadequate ventilation. The adoption of these systems allows for more precise control over building systems, continuous monitoring and adjustment capabilities, and enable prompt interventions to reduce health and safety risk.” – Ibrahim Imam, CEO MENA + APAC and Co-Founder of PlanRadar
