Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)

Sick Building Syndrome has been recognised in Australia for many years and relates to recognised health hazards affecting employee workplace health and safety. 

Building related illnesses or Sick Building Syndrome have been identified to specific causes.  There is difficulty in determining the exact cause of a special condition or illness.  In the more severe cases they may be more readily identifiable however, there is no easily discernible means of establishing a cause of a given SBS.

Tests must normally be conducted in conjunction with observation to detect causative agents.  These agents belong to the categories chemical or biological pollutants or a physical characteristic of the building's atmosphere.

Workcover Techsource

Workcover in NSW has undertaken testing and has identified several causes of the 'Sick Building Syndrome' including

Asbestos

Asbestos is a major source of dust pollution as the fibres are light and are readily suspended in air and can be readily inhaled.  Asbestocosus is a major disease in Australia and has been sourced from factories and mines where blue asbestos fibre has been present. 

Tests may be carried out for the identification of asbestos in either fibre or dust form and this may be achieved by the use of microscopy and X-Ray diffractrometry.

Asbestos Cement Clad Buildings

Generally asbestos cement clad buildings do not present a major hazard if correctly handled.  Workcover in most states provide guidelines for construction workers when working on existing buildings using asbestos cement for coating or roofing materials.

Asbestos cement can be readily contained or encapsulated and work should be undertaken by persons with accreditation to satisfy the local authorities.  Approved respirators are normally required and EAGLE can provide further information on request.

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Last revision: April 2004.