Occupational and environmental risk factors for the sick building syndrome in modern offices in Istanbul: A cross sectional study

Abstract

In this study we aimed to research the frequency of and possible risk factors for sick building syndrome (SBS) in indoor workplaces in Istanbul. The investigation was carried out in 50 non-governmental bank offices: 25 had a central ventilation system (the study group) and 25 a local ventilation system (the control group). Clinical outcomes were estimated by a standardised questionnaire completed by employees. In addition, the level of indoor gaseous pollutants and bio-aerosols (micro-fungi and bacteria) were measured. The most prevalent bio-aerosols found in the study offices were high densities of Penicillium and Aspergillus spores in contrast to the control offices where the predominant species were Cladasporium and Alternia spores. Findings of SBS were relatively increased in those working in buildings with a central air conditioning system (OR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.04-2.70); in those working for less than 3 years in the building (OR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.18-3.09); in those operating a photocopier frequently (OR = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.15-2.53); in women (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.21-2.63) and in those with workplace dissatisfaction (OR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.40-3.05).