SICK BUILDING SYNDROME

ADITHYA R S
MANU AJITH
NOUREEN NOUSHEER
SAHAL SIRAJ
SHISHIRA ROY
SUDEV MANOHAR
 SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:
 Sick Building Syndrome is the term to describe a facility that is
exposing occupants to harmful conditions or uncomfortable
environments: most often resulting from poor ventilation or errors in
HVAC functionality that be linked to time spent in the building.
 Sick building syndrome (SBS) -a term for symptoms which may be
triggered by poor indoor air quality including:
 -Mucous membrane irritation: eye, nose, and throat irritation:-

 Attributable to the increasing presence of electronic equipment and other  -Neurotoxic effects: headaches, mental fatigue, reduced memory,
factors. nausea, tiredness, dizziness, and irritability;
 Phenomenon occur when more than 20% of the occupants of building  -Asthma and asthma-like symptoms: chest tightness and wheezing;
complain about air quality or have definite symptoms.  -Skin dryness and irritation, gastrointestinal complaints, and others.
 Combination of ailments associated with an individual's place of work or  SBS- Primary causes are:
residence related to indoor air quality. Indoor air quality includes:
 Inadequate ventilation.
 CO, CO3, SO2, NO2O
 Chemical contamination from :
 Lead
 -Indoor sources.
 Particulate matter
 -Outdoor sources.
 Mold, bacteria
 Biological contaminants.
 Radon
 Other allergens
 CAUSES OF SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:

1. POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) – Poor IAQ is perhaps the most prominent contributor to SBS by frequency and
effect since each component is capable of exerting a significant direct physiological effect on persons by themselves.
 (a) Inadequate ventilation: Insufficient or inadequate ventilation is high up on this list as it gives rise to many of the
symptoms of SBS affecting with adverse effects associated with asphyxiation including headaches, dizziness, confusion,
fatigue, lowered cognition or a general feeling of being unwell.
 (b) Thermal discomfort :Excessive exposure to radiant heat causing discomfort include being situated in proximity to
sources such as windows on a hot sunny day, or electronic equipment such as computer servers.
 Thermal discomfort may encourage and/or trigger symptoms such as cold and/or numbness in extremities, lack of circulation,
cognitive impairment, rashes, cramps and even strokes.
 (c) Airborne Particulate Matter (PM): While the human respiratory system possesses an adaptation involving mechanical
ciliary removal to deal with these contaminants, airborne PM becomes significant in IAQ and SBS, aside from toxic effects of
exposure to skin.
 Symptoms of over-exposure to airborne PM may, therefore, correspond to more specific physical, chemical and biological
nature of the causative contaminant(s), including coughing, difficulty breathing, irritation to eyes, nose, throat and skin, with
developed non-specific hypersensitivity, asthma and rashes as potential long-term effects. A more modern understanding of
over-exposure to PM is its link to specific premature deaths in people with heart or lung conditions.
 (d) Build-up of Chemical Contaminants: The chemicals that often end up accumulating in the air are largely organic in
nature and typically come from:
 (i) the off-gassing of building materials used such as paints and coatings, floorings and carpeting, fittings and furnishings, as
 CAUSES OF SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:
 (ii) operational activities by occupants indoors such as cooking, fabrication and manufacturing.
 The molecule CO has the ability to bind irreversibly with the oxygen-carrying component in the blood
(haemoglobin) to effectively end its biological function of interchangeably accepting and releasing oxygen and
carbon dioxide in respiration. It tends to be found in indoor spaces next to enclosed parking or cooking activities
where the exhaust is insufficient and can give rise to symptoms associated with anaemia such as headaches,
dizziness and nausea and in higher doses can cause loss of consciousness.
 (e)Biological Contaminants :Bacteria, molds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants. They
breed in stagnant accumulated water in ducts, humidifiers, drain pans, ceiling tiles, carpets or AC insulation.
Sometimes insects or bird droppings can be a source of biological contaminants.Sickness through bio –
contamination
 Asthma
 Allergies
 Chronic Rhinitis
 Chronic Sinuisitis
 Sick Building Syndrome
 Neurological Impairment & Toxic Mold Indoor Coughing, Sneezing, Indigestion, Nose Bleeds.
 These elements may act in combination, and may supplement other complaints such as inadequate temperature,
humidity or lighting.
 CAUSES OF SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:
 2. OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS – Being in a built-up environment also means being exposed to
other created aspects of an environment that provides stimuli that may cause or exacerbate SBS.
 a. Poor lighting quality – visual perception may instead cause neurological symptoms when provided with
lighting that creates a strain in the associated eye-brain interaction. In these situations, lighting intensities that are
either deemed too high or too low, flickering lights and even the colour rendering of light may result in or
exacerbate discomfort such as headaches, migraines and dizziness.
 b. Poor Acoustics – Inappropriate sound stimuli may also work subconsciously to affect the psychological and
even physiological states of persons. For example, it is known that low frequencies in the range 10Hz to 200Hz
can cause extreme distress in affected people. While rarely being significant in SBS in most cases, being exposed
to poor acoustics such as sounds or noises that are too loud, of extreme frequencies or generally regarded as
disturbing may contribute to exacerbate discomfort and irritability.
 c. Odour – odours also exert neurological effects and contribute to SBS if deemed too intense, inappropriate or
generally unpleasant enough to cause annoyance and irritability that could result in headaches, dizziness and
migraines.
 d. Others – There are perceivably other aspects of the built-up environment that persons suffering from SBS may
have been exposed to, with various types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation and poor ergonomics as examples and
others that may remain unknown. Symptoms in these cases tend to be neurological as with other causes involving
stimuli involving the corresponding senses, with potential longer term effects manifested physiologically
 SBS -BUILDING INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

 OBJECTIVE - Conduct building investigation to identify and resolve permanently,

recurring indoor air quality complaints that may lead to other problems.
 MISSION - To discover whether a complaint is actually related to Indoor Air
Quality, (IAQ)identify the cause of the complaint and determine appropriate
corrective actions.
 ACTION - Conduct an indoor air quality investigation procedure.
 METHODOLOGY-
 -Prepare for Walk through,
 -Conduct an initial walk through,
 -Collect air Test samples.
 RESULT – remedy / containment.
 

PROCESS TO REMEDY SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:

 By looking at documented complaints and symptoms of sufferers, once this list of

complaints from past and present tenants is compiled, it should be determined if SBS
is apparent enough and if suspected, the risk level with respect to human health and
safety determined.
 The process continues with an investigation through all possible causes starting with
the most likely suspected cause(s) with the aim of eventually arriving at a conclusion
deduced from sufficient investigation findings.
 These include ventilation rates, thermal comfort parameters, lighting and noise where
reasonably suspected. Checking against the applicable current standards, the
presence of deficiencies and shortfalls in performance may be identified.
 A physical site visit conducted as a walk-through may provide useful relative details
or disclose new possible contributors or even likely causes to an outbreak.
 Priority should be placed to test for particles, chemicals and biologics such as those
comprising standard IAQ test protocols or codes of practice to detect raised levels of
these contaminants that exceed prescribed exposure limits.
 Once some indication on probable cause(s) becomes available, corresponding
immediate mitigation or remedial actions affecting either or all of the people,
building hardware and software would need to be expedited and the condition
monitored for improvement till resolution.
 PROCESS TO REMEDY SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:
 If a high-level risk to human health and safety is discovered an immediate action would be to
evacuate affected spaces of people until they are proven safe once again for occupation
 Resolving SBS in a given building may sometimes be as simple as improving the quality of
lighting, dampening sounds, or making tweaks to the air-conditioning and/or mechanical
ventilation or removing an identified pollutant such that prevailing standards to their
corresponding parameter are met.
 In other times, an external assistance may be warranted to start getting significant improvements
underway.
 In all cases given that SBS may only become apparent over an extended period, it should be
expected that the effectiveness of remedial actions may correspondingly take time to be
determined and confirmed.
 In the process of dealing with sick building syndrome issues is that good communication between
all stakeholders plays an essential part throughout the course and is a strong determinant to the
speed and quality of the outcome.
 PREVENTION OF SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:

1. Raise and/or review the Building Profile including:

 Intended use, design, specification and layout of the building structure and critical hardware such as ventilation and lighting.
 Performance and history of the above.
 Tenancy profiles & history (include registration records, copies of permits and licenses).
2.  Review the building operation and management policies and procedures pertaining to:
 Occupancy (registration, permits, property checks, complaints, etc.)
 Hardware (scheduled maintenance)
 Detection, feedback, remedies and improvement (regarding hardware and tenants)
3.  Review available records and analyse data for conformance and/or adequacy including:
 Performance and servicing records for hardware.
 Test results for indoor conditions including IAQ, lighting, acoustics.
 Tenancy feedback, including complaints or indications of occupant satisfaction & subsequent resolution.
4.  Take appropriate measures to bring building performance standards up to levels needed to
accommodate the sustenance of healthy occupation in the building noting possible:
 Adjustment, replacement or addition of equipment.
 Policy or procedural changes involving tenants.
 SOLUTIONS FOR SICK BUILDING SYNDROME:
 Taking measures to prevent SBS from the start means fulfilling a  Removal of the pollutants.
fundamental obligation of building owners to provide a safe indoor  Increase ventilation.
environment for occupants. In doing so active prevention of SBS also
helps avoid costs related to lost productivity, medical reimbursements,  Clean the air.
remedial actions, as well as potential legal fees and liabilities associated  Educate others about sick building syndrome and let the health hazards
with SBS outbreaks
be known
 Maintaining the HVAC system to ensure that it functions properly and
does not become contaminated is important in preventing sick building
syndrome.
 Ensuring adequate airflow and distribution is critically important.
 All chemicals should be properly stored and only used with proper
ventilation.
 Purchasing furniture and carpet made with low contents of volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) and only painting with low-VOC paints
can help prevent sick building syndrome.
 Make sure that air intakes for the building are not located where
outdoor pollution from motor vehicles and manufacturing can cause
contamination.
GREEN FIELD DEVELOPMENT
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

ABOUT:
 AMAALA is an exquisite, luxury tourism
destination being developed along the
northwestern Red Sea coastline of Saudi Arabia,
set to curate transformative personal journeys.
 AMAALA incorporates an integrated approach to
health and wellbeing and is centered around three
key pillars: wellness and sports; arts and culture;
and sea, sun, and lifestyle.

 A commitment to sustainability is an integral part

of the AMAALA’s brand promise.
 Sustainability is a cornerstone of AMAALA, with
an aim to operate with a zero-carbon footprint,
powered by renewable energy with no connection
to the national grid, sustainably source 50% of all
food by 2030, and contribute to zero waste to
landfill. 
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

SUSTAINABILITY:
 Taking inspiration from the Bedouin tribes who
traditionally hold a deep respect for and
connection to the ancestral lands and seas that
sustain them.
 A commitment to world-class sustainability is an
integral part of the AMAALA’s brand promise.
 While the AMAALA resort destination spans
over 4,155 square kilometers (1,604 square miles)
of unspoiled terrain within the Prince Mohammad
bin Salman Natural Reserve, approximately five
percent of the greenfield site will be developed,
with the remainder managed for conservation
value.
 With an operational zero-carbon footprint as its
goal, the destination has more than 15
sustainability criteria.
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

SUSTAINABILITY:
 AMAALA has partnered with global conservation
partners to work on several marine life research
and conservation initiatives. This work will
benefit AMAALA’s ongoing preservation efforts
and improve coral conservation across the world.
 From a design perspective, the entire destination
is being built with a focus on an operational zero-
carbon footprint, with multiple ongoing
programme to ensure an ecological focus during
development.
 AMAALA is also a key part of Vision 2030,
contributing to a diversified Saudi Arabian
economy and a developing tourism infrastructure
all designed to provide sustainable economic
growth for the future of the Kingdom.
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

LOCATION:
 Its unique location presents a year-round temperate climate,
allowing for tourism 365 days of the year.
 Its three communities are easily accessible by air, road, and
sea, and connected to the iconic marinas of the Mediterranean
Sea.
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA
AMAALA PROJECT CONSISTS OF THREE
COMMUNITIES:
THE ISLAND: THE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT: TRIPLE BAY:

 Set against a backdrop of soaring

 The perfect partner to The Island, The
 This peaceful enclave of upscale hotels mountains, sparkling sea, and a
Coastal Development celebrates its
and private estate villas is coastline of kaleidoscopic coral reefs,
natural offerings through a vibrant arts
complemented by expansive sea views Triple Bay is a place for holistic
and culture programme, ocean
and Arabian-inspired botanical gardens wellness and sports, as well as
experiences, as well as a commitment
showcasing works of art and sculpture. rejuvenation for the body, mind, and
to preservation.
soul.
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE ISLAND:
 The Island offers Arabian-inspired botanical
gardens showcasing works of art and sculpture,
and breathtaking landscapes surrounding elegant
private estate villas.
 Anchored by an artists' village of working
studios, artisan shops, exhibition and
performance facilities,
 The Village will host an active arts community,
supported by uber-luxury beachfront resorts and
marinas.
 The Island will offer privacy in an exquisite
setting, with the AMAALA Resort as the jewel in
its crown.
 An unforgettable, ultra-luxury destination,
AMAALA will offer a select global community a
truly bespoke encounter.
SCULPTURE ART INSTITUTE
PARK
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE ISLAND:
 The Island will offer diving, golf, an underwater museum, an immersive spa, art parks, and sumptuous Arabian-inspired botanical gardens - all
centered around a vibrant artists' community.

CONTEMPORARY MUSEUM GOLF ECO DIVING POLO TURTLE SANCTUARY

AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT:
 Playing host to a
dynamic programme of
events from the global
arts and cultural
calendar, this coastline
will be a gathering
place for a community
of connoisseurs.
 Set to become the
epicenter of the arts in
the Middle East, it will
feature a contemporary
art museum and
cultural district.

KINETIC STRUCTURE GOLF COURSE VILLAS KINETIC STRUCTURE

AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT:
 The Cultural Village
will be an ever-
evolving ode to
international and
Arabian contemporary
art with artisan
galleries and numerous
installations. It will
draw a diverse
community of
tastemakers from
around the world and
reflect our commitment
to conserve and
enhance the natural
marine ecosystem
CULTURAL VILLAGE
AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT:
 The Coastal
Development will
offer a refined yet
relaxed, uncrowded,
and unhurried
atmosphere, with the
Cultural Village at its
heart. World-class
golfing can be
enjoyed at the Golf
Course Villas, as well
as diving, yachting,
arts, events, and other
recreational activities

ART MUSEUM YACHTING ECO DIVING

AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE COASTAL
DEVELOPMENT:
 The Marine Life
Institute at Triple Bay
will be a dedicated
research and education
centre. Working to
conserve and enhance
the local ecosystem,
this state-of-the-art
facility will also serve
to advance marine and
coastal science
worldwide

MARINE INSTITUTE MARINE INSTITUTE

AMAALA PROJECT, SAUDI ARABIA

THE TRIPLE BAY:

 Set against a backdrop of
mountains and sparkling
seas - and running
alongside a coastline of
beautiful coves - this
seascape will offer one of
the world's most exclusive
wellness retreats supported
by luxury resorts,
recreational activities, a
sports performance
academy, and active sports
club facilities including
equestrian, polo, camel
racing, falconry, golf, and
tennis
BROWN FIELD DEVELOPMENT
NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER ,USA
NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER

ABOUT:
 ADDRESS: 400 Caddo Street, Shreveport, LA
71101 PROPERTY

 SIZE: 15 acres

 FORMER USES: Confederate arsenal and

military complex; system of wharves, docks and
warehouses; sawmill; foundries; warehouses;
railroad; former power plant

 CURRENT USE: Shreveport Convention Center. 

 The City of Shreveport utilized $400,000 in EPA

Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund funding.
NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER

PROJECT BACKGROUND

 During the Civil War, the property served as the grounds for the
Confederate States Army and later became part of a system of
wharves, docks and warehouses during the height of the steamboat
era
 Subsequently, the property became an integral part of the region’s
railroad system and a portion was utilized by Shreveport Gas and
Electric Company for nearly 60 years.
 For the last 25 years, the property has been virtually abandoned.
 To spur economic redevelopment and community revitalization,
the City of Shreveport identified the property in 1999 as a
potential location for the proposed Shreveport Convention Center.
 NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER

 In 2001, the City of Shreveport completed environmental KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

investigations of the property under an EPA Brownfields
Assessment Demonstration Pilot.
• Leveraged $102 million in public and private funding for assessment,
 These investigations identified arsenic, benzo(a) pyrene, and other cleanup, and redevelopment activities
contaminants at concentrations that exceeded both federal and
LDEQ standards • Removed 38,005 cubic yards of soil contaminated with petroleum
products

• Leveraged an estimated 1,100 in cleanup, construction, and

redevelopment jobs

• One of the first projects to enter the LDEQ Voluntary Remediation

Program
 NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER
OUTCOME:

 The City of Shreveport used $400,000 from an EPA Brownfields Revolving

Loan Fund to clean up a portion of the 15-acre property
 additional $102 million from public- and private-sector sources for cleanup
and redevelopment, transforming the former brownfield into a state-of-the-art
convention center.
 The 350,000 square-foot facility—the second largest convention center in
Louisiana and the largest in the tri-state area—features modern, high-tech
meeting and exhibit space.
 NEW SHREVEPORT CONVENTION CENTER
 The Shreveport Convention Center opened its doors in January 2006,
serving as an anchor and catalyst for area redevelopment;
 The Shreveport Convention Center is a multi-purpose, state-of-the-art
facility designed to accommodate any event, from major conventions and
trade shows to intimate gatherings such as wedding receptions and
banquets.
 It boasts more than 350,000 square feet and can be customized to meet
any group's requirements.
REFERENCES

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sick_building_syndrome
 https://optipura.com/treat-and-prevent-sick-building-syndrome/
 https://www.emedicinehealth.com/sick_building_syndrome/article_em.htm
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amaala
 https://shreveportcenter.com/
 https://deq.louisiana.gov/assets/images/BrownfieldsGeneral/ShreveportConventionCenterSuccessStory.pdf