Factores relacionados con el síndrome del edificio enfermo en una institución prestadora de servicios de salud

Introducción: El síndrome del edificio enfermo (SEE) ha sido descrito como una afección de salud que sufren los trabajadores debido a factores de riesgo físicos, químicos, biológicos y psicosociales del entorno laboral. Su origen es multifactorial y sus síntomas desaparecen cuando el trabajador abandona el edificio. En Colombia no existe un instrumento para su diagnóstico. Objetivo: Determinar la presencia del síndrome de edificio enfermo e identificar los factores asociados en las instalaciones de una institución prestadora de servicios de salud. Métodos: Se aplicó la encuesta de la Norma Técnica de Prevención 290 (Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, adscrito al Ministerio de Trabajo y Asuntos Sociales de España) a 130 trabajadores administrativos. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron la presencia del SEE y se identificó como síntoma más prevalente el dolor de espalda. De acuerdo con los análisis estadísticos, los factores de riesgo asociados fueron físicos y múltiples factores psicosociales relacionados con la organización, por lo que se sugiere fortalecer este aspecto. Conclusiones: A diferencia de estudios similares, el porcentaje de la presencia de síntomas respiratorios, oculares y relacionados con alergias fue menor al 20 %, esto podría ser explicado por las condiciones de bioseguridad y aislamiento debidas al programa de mitigación de la COVID-19, por lo cual es aconsejable seguir manteniendo estas condiciones y realizar un estudio más profundo sobre el origen de los síntomas destacados.

Introduction: The sick building syndrome has been described as a health condition suffered by workers due to physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial risk factors of the work environment. Its origin is multifactorial and symptoms disappear when the worker leaves the building. In Colombia there is not an instrument for its diagnosis. Objective: To determine the presence of the sick building syndrome and identify the associated factors in the facilities of an institution providing health services. Methods: The survey of the Technical Prevention Standard 290 (National Institute of Safety and Hygiene at Work, attached to the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of Spain) was applied to 70 administrative workers. Results: The results demonstrated the presence of the sick building syndrome, and back pain was identified as the most prevalent symptom. According to the statistical analysis, the associated risk factors were physical and multiple psychosocial factors related to the organization, therefore, strengthening this aspect is suggested. Conclusions: Unlike similar studies, the percentage of the presence of respiratory, eye and allergy-related symptoms was less than 20%, which could be explained by the biosafety and isolation conditions due to the COVID-19 mitigation program therefore; it is advisable to continue maintaining these conditions and carry out a more in-depth study on the origin of the outstanding symptoms.

Prevalencia del síndrome del edificio enfermo en trabajadores de la industria manufacturera / Prevalence of sick building syndrome in manufacturing industry workers

El síndrome del edificio enfermo, se refiere a un conjunto de síntomas generales en mucosa (ocular y/o respiratoria) y piel que presentan los ocupantes de edificaciones con calidad ambiental deficientes, exponiendo a sus ocupantes a factores de riesgos físicos, mecánicos, químicos, biológicos y psicosociales, que puede afectar negativamente la salud y productividad de las personas. Con el propósito de determinar la frecuencia de los síntomas de los ocupantes de una industria manufacturera del Perú, se realizó estudio transversal aplicándose a 237 trabajadores, estratificados por áreas laborales, el cuestionario sugerido por el Instituto Nacional de Higiene y Seguridad en el Trabajo, además de evaluar la condición ambiental mediante la determinación de bioaerosoles cultivables y contables. Los resultados mostraron prevalencia superior al 20% en síntomas como: sequedad en ojos y garganta, picor en garganta congestión nasal, dolor de cabeza y debilidad general. Se tomaron, cuantificaron y caracterizaron 164 muestras de bioaerosoles, los microrganismos encontrados con mayor porcentaje fueron, Aspergillus sp. 54,68% (68) en el área administrativa, mientras que en las áreas de producción y almacén predomino Penicillium sp. con 87,10% (108) y 62,21% (77) respectivamente. Otros géneros encontrados en mayor porcentajes, en las tres áreas fueron: Trichoderma, Acremonium, Monilia, Cladosporium, entre otros. Los hallazgos se correlacionan con lo reportado en diversas investigaciones, la presencia de mencionados hongos, sugiere que existe una inadecuada calidad ambiental y aunada a la prevalencia obtenida en cuanto a sintomatología, se puede clasificar la edificación objeto de estudio con el Síndrome del edificio enfermo(AU)

Sick building syndrome refers to a set of general mucosal (ocular and/or respiratory) and skin symptoms presented by occupants of buildings with poor environmental quality, exposing their occupants to physical, mechanical, chemical, biological and psychosocial, which can negatively affect the health and productivity of people. In order to determine the frequency of the symptoms of the occupants of a manufacturing industry in Peru, a cross-sectional study was carried out, applying to 237 workers, stratified by work areas, the questionnaire suggested by the National Institute of Hygiene and Safety at Work, in addition to to evaluate the environmental condition by determining cultivable and countable bioaerosols. The results showed a prevalence greater than 20% in symptoms such as: dry eyes and throat, itchy throat, nasal congestion, headache and general weakness. 164 samples of bioaerosols were taken, quantified and characterized, the microorganisms found with the highest percentage were Aspergillus sp. 54.68% (68) in the administrative area, while in the production and storage areas, Penicillium sp. with 87.10% (108) and 62.21% (77) respectively. Other genera found in higher percentages in the three areas were: Trichoderma, Acremonium, Monilia, Cladosporium, among others. The findings correlate with what has been reported in various investigations, the presence of these fungi suggests that there is an inadequate environmental quality and, together with the prevalence obtained in terms of symptoms, the building under study can be classified with the Sick Building Syndrome(AU)

Tradução e adaptação transcultural brasileira do Cuestionario para detección del Síndrome del Edifício Enfermo / Traducción y adaptación transcultural brasileña del Cuestionario para la detección del Síndrome del Edificio Enfermo / Brazilian Translation and Cross-Cultural Adaption of the Questionnaire for Detecting Sick-Building Syndrome

Introdução: A mensuração de fenômenos em Saúde possui implicação na detecção precoce de agravos. A Saúde do Trabalhador no Brasil e seu potencial para internacionalização facilitam o uso de materiais estrangeiros de mensuração de fenômenos. Objetivo: Adaptar transculturalmente o Cuestionario para Detección del Síndrome del Edifício Enfermo para o contexto de trabalhadores de saúde brasileiros. Métodos: Estudo metodológico, transversal, quantitativo, a partir das etapas: 2 traduções iniciais, 1 síntese das traduções, 2 retrotraduções, comitê de especialistas e pré-teste realizado com 37 trabalhadores de saúde de um hospital. As variáveis numéricas foram abordadas por análise estatística descritiva univariada, utilizando-se tabelas de frequência para sumarizar os dados. Resultados: O instrumento foi traduzido e submetido às etapas de adaptação transcultural, e sofreu alterações de itens, além de adequações: semântica, idiomática, cultural e conceitual. Os trabalhadores participantes do pré-teste também contribuíram com modificações no questionário e eram em sua maioria técnicos de enfermagem, enfermeiros e médicos; referiram preocupação com sua saúde, e muitos apresentaram queixas de adoecimento físico relacionado ao trabalho. Após as modificações de itens e substituições de termos, foi obtida uma versão adaptada. O pré-teste possibilitou a observação de problemas frequentes como trabalho em turnos prolongados e a pouca oportunidade de tomada de decisão do trabalhador. Conclusão: O questionário adaptado para o português do Brasil está adequado ao contexto dos trabalhadores de saúde brasileiros e constitui recurso a detecção precoce da Síndrome do Edifício Doente na visão contextual do trabalho(AU)

Introducción: La medición de los fenómenos de salud tiene implicaciones para la detección temprana de enfermedades. La salud laboral en Brasil y su potencial de internacionalización facilitan el uso de materiales extraños para medir fenómenos. Objetivo: Adaptar transculturalmente el cuestionario para detección del síndrome de edificio enfermo en el contexto de los trabajadores de salud brasileños. Métodos: Estudio metodológico, transversal y cuantitativo, a partir de los pasos: 2 traducciones iniciales, 1 síntesis de traducciones, 2 traducciones posteriores, comité de expertos y prueba previa realizada con 37 trabajadores de salud de un hospital. Las variables numéricas se abordaron por análisis estadístico descriptivo univariado, utilizando tablas de frecuencia para resumir los datos. Resultados: El instrumento fue traducido y sometido a las etapas de adaptación intercultural, y sufrió cambios en los ítems, así como ajustes: semántico, idiomático, cultural y conceptual. Los trabajadores que participaron en la prueba previa también contribuyeron a las modificaciones en el cuestionario y fueron en su mayoría técnicos de enfermería, enfermeras y médicos; informaron preocupación por su salud y muchos se quejaron de enfermedades físicas relacionadas con el trabajo. Después de las modificaciones de los ítems y las sustituciones de términos, se obtuvo una versión adaptada. La prueba previa permitió observar problemas frecuentes, como trabajar turnos largos y la poca oportunidad para que el trabajador tomara decisiones. Conclusiones: El cuestionario adaptado al portugués brasileño es apropiado para el contexto de los trabajadores de salud brasileños y es una característica de detección temprana del síndrome del edificio enfermo en la vista del trabajo(AU)

Introduction: The measurement of health phenomena has implications concerning early detection of diseases. Occupational health in Brazil and its potential for internationalization facilitate the use of foreign materials to measure phenomena. Objective: To adapt, cross-culturally, the questionnaire for the detection of sick-building syndrome in the setting of Brazilian health workers. Methods: Methodological, cross-sectional and quantitative study based on the following steps: two initial translations, one synthesis of translations, two subsequent translations, a committee of experts, and a preliminary test carried out with 37 health workers from a hospital. The numerical variables were addressed by univariate descriptive statistical analysis, using frequency tables to summarize the data. Results: The instrument was translated and subjected to the intercultural adaptation stages, and underwent changes in the items, as well as adjustments of the following types: semantic, idiomatic, cultural and conceptual. The workers who participated in the pre-test also contributed to the modifications in the questionnaire and were mostly nursing technicians, nurses and doctors; they reported concern for their health, and many complained over work-related physical illnesses. After the modifications of the items and the substitutions of terms, an adapted version was obtained. The pre-test revealed frequent problems, such as working long shifts and little opportunity for the worker to make decisions. Conclusions: The questionnaire adapted to Brazilian Portuguese is appropriate for the setting of Brazilian health workers, and is a feature of early detection of sick-building syndrome in the workplace(AU)

Lifestyle behaviors and home and school environment in association with sick building syndrome among elementary school children: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND@#Sick building syndrome (SBS) refers to the combination of symptoms experienced by occupants of specific building characteristics. This study investigated the associations of children's lifestyle behaviors, allergies, home, and school environment with SBS symptoms.@*METHODS@#A total of 4408 elementary school children living in Sapporo City, Japan participated in this study. SBS was determined on parental answers to MM080 standardized school questionnaires on symptoms that were weekly experienced by these children, and if the symptom is attributed to their home or school environment. The Japanese version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire was used to assess wheeze, rhino-conjunctivitis, and eczema. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the associations between SBS symptoms and variables by controlling the potential confounders (gender, grade, school, and parental history of allergies). A stepwise backward elimination was conducted to assess independent variables related to SBS.@*RESULTS@#Participants revealed mucosal (6.9%), skin (2.0%), and general (0.8%) symptoms. The presence of one or more allergy was associated with increased mucosal and skin symptoms. Children who skipped breakfast, displayed faddiness (like/dislike of food), had constipation, have insufficient sleep, did not feel refreshed after sleep, and lacked deep sleep showed significantly high odds ratios with SBS symptoms. The stepwise analysis showed faddiness for mucosal symptoms and not feeling refreshed after sleep for mucosal and skin symptoms, whereas constipation and lacking deep sleep for general symptoms were independent variables in increasing the symptoms. We found no significant relationship between SBS in children and schools. Considering children's home, old building, no ventilation, wall-to-wall carpet, and heavy nearby traffic were associated with elevated mucosal symptom, while living in a multifamily home increased general symptoms. Home dampness was an independent variable in increasing all SBS symptoms.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Allergies and lifestyle behaviors were associated with increased SBS in children, including skipping breakfast, displaying faddiness, constipation, insufficient sleep, not feeling refreshed after sleep, and the lack of deep sleep. Further, dampness at home was associated with increase in all SBS symptoms. Lifestyle (e.g., eating and sleeping habits) and home (i.e., dampness) improvements might alleviate SBS symptoms in children.

Discusión del síndrome del edificio enfermo en trabajadores de la salud / Discussion about the Sick Building Syndrome in Health Workers

Introducción: La salud ocupacional involucra importantes líneas de debate. La enfermedad ocupacional ve el ejercicio del trabajo y el ambiente de trabajo como causas de la enfermedad de los trabajadores, como es el caso del síndrome del edificio enfermo. Objetivo: Discutir, en base a la literatura científica, el síndrome del edificio enfermo en el contexto de los trabajadores de la salud. Métodos: Revisión integradora realizada en abril de 2019. Se usaron cuatro bases de datos en las cuales se obtuvieron 37 artículos inicialmente. No se aplicaron los criterios de delimitación temporal o idiomática. Después de leer por completo se dejaron 10 estudios primarios que se trataron más adelante. Toda la selección y el análisis siguieron un diagrama de flujo y la estrategia de PRISMA. Conclusión: Se encontró poca producción sobre el síndrome del edificio enfermo enfocado en el contexto de los trabajadores de la salud, lo que dificulta la obtención de estudios actuales que aborden el problema. Sin embargo, según lo que se ha revisado, los factores causales van desde fallas en los sistemas de ventilación y sus cualidades hasta el problema de la sobrecarga de trabajo y los entornos con microorganismos. Los síntomas son diversos y se caracterizan principalmente por problemas relacionados con las vías respiratorias, la piel y el tracto psicológico. Las actividades de intervención involucran el desempeño de profesionales dirigidos a unidades de salud ocupacional, el uso de instrumentos para detectar riesgos de exposición y cambios en los hábitos estructurales(AU)

Introduction: Occupational health involves important lines of debate. Occupational disease sees working and the work environment as causes of workers' disease, as is the case of sick building syndrome. Objective: To discuss, based on the scientific literature, the sick building syndrome in the setting of health workers. Methods: Integrative review carried out in April 2019. Four databases were used, in which 37 articles were initially obtained. The criteria of time or language delimitation were not applied. After reading the whole information, 10 primary studies were chosen, which were discussed later. All the choosing and the analysis followed a flow chart and the strategy of PRISMA. Conclusion: Little production was found about sick building syndrome focused on the setting of health workers, making it difficult to obtain current studies that address the problem. However, based on what has been reviewed, the causal factors range from failure of ventilation systems and their qualities to the problem of work overload and environments with microorganisms. The symptoms are diverse and characterized mainly by problems related to the respiratory tract, the skin, and the psychological aspect. Intervention activities involve professional performance targeted to occupational health units, the use of instruments to detect exposure risks, and changes in structural habits(AU)

Sick Building Syndrome among Office Workers in relation to Office Environment and Indoor Air Pollutant at an Academic Institution, Malaysia

Abstract@#Introduction: Good indoor air quality (IAQ) is important for workers’ well-being whilst simultaneously optimize work productivity and job performance of the workers in an office. This study aims to determine the association between the sick building syndrome (SBS) in relation to the personal factors, indoor office environment and indoor air pollutants at an academic institution in Malaysia. Methods: A total of 342 office workers; made up of 188 (55%) female and 154 male (45%), from 14 different office buildings; made up of administrative, faculties, centers, institutes and school, participated in this study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to determine symptoms related to SBS. Real time readings of IAQ parameters were conducted three times daily for 15 minutes /sampling point. Results: Results showed higher prevalence of the SBS symptoms generally among women; diagnosed asthma was positively associated with mucosal symptoms; current smoking was significantly associated with skin symptoms; and centralized air conditioning system, the use of photocopiers, printers or fax machines for more than 1 hour per day and installation of a new carpet in the office environment were significant risk factors of SBS. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, formaldehyde, ultrafine particle and total volatile organic compounds were significantly associated with mucosal symptoms. Conclusion: Demographic characteristics, indoor office environment and indoor air pollutants were significant risk factors of SBS among workers in this study. It is highly recommended to maintain good housekeeping and to isolate printers and photocopier machines from the main workplace since both were sources of particulates.

Prevalence and risk factors of pre-sick building syndrome: characteristics of indoor environmental and individual factors

BACKGROUND@#With the aim to prevent sick building syndrome and worsening of allergic symptoms, primarily resulting from the indoor environment, the relationships among people's residential environment in recent years, their lifestyle habits, their awareness, and their symptoms were investigated using an online survey.@*METHODS@#In the survey, respondents experiencing symptoms specific to sick building syndrome, although they were not diagnosed with sick building syndrome, were categorized in the pre-sick building syndrome group. The relationships among individual characteristics, residential environment, and individual awareness were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#Results showed that the prevalence of pre-sick building syndrome was high among young (aged 20-29 years) population of both sexes. In addition, "condensation," "moisture," "musty odors" in the house, and the "use of deodorant and fragrance" were all significantly associated with pre-sick building syndrome. Conversely, there was no significant association with recently built "wooden" houses that are highly airtight and have thermal insulation.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Efficient "ventilation" plans and "ventilation" improvement and air conditioning systems to prevent mold and condensation in rooms are necessary to maintain a good, indoor environment that is beneficial for health. Efforts should also be made to encourage individuals to regularly clean and effectively ventilate their homes.

Sick Building Syndrome And Mental Health Among University Laboratory Staffs

he aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sick building syndrome (SBS) and other factors contributing to probable mental health problems among university laboratory staffs. A cross - sectional study was conducted among 264 laboratory staffs in UPM. Data was collected using validated self - administrated questionnaires consists of Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and SBS. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. In total, about 28% of the participants reported having probable mental health problems. The prevalence of SBS was 31.4%. After controlling for confounders, the significant factors for probable mental health problems were job insecurity (AOR 2.33, 95% CI 0.212 - 0.867 ), job demand (AOR 1.12, 95% CI 0.445 - 0.921 ), fatigue (AOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.162 - 1.425 ), drowsiness (AOR 0.75, 95% CI 1.023 - 4.647 ) and household income (AOR 0.339, 95% CI 0.166 - 0.995). Results visibly showed that psychosocial factors and symptoms of SBS at their working environment contribute to pr obable mental health problems among laboratory staffs. The strongest predictors in this study were job insecurity. Hence, further assessment and preventive measures should be carried out to reduce the risk factors of probable mental health problems and to improve working environment among university laboratory staffs

Sick Building Syndrome And Mental Health Among University Laboratory Staffs

@#The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sick building syndrome (SBS) and other factors contributing to probable mental health problems among university laboratory staffs. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 264 laboratory staffs in UPM. Data was collected using validated self-administrated questionnaires consists of Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and SBS. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. In total, about 28% of the participants reported having probable mental health problems. The prevalence of SBS was 31.4%. After controlling for confounders, the significant factors for probable mental health problems were job insecurity (AOR 2.33, 95% CI 0.212- 0.867), job demand (AOR 1.12, 95% CI 0.445-0.921), fatigue (AOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.162-1.425), drowsiness (AOR 0.75, 95% CI 1.023-4.647) and household income (AOR 0.339, 95% CI0.166-0.995).Results visibly showed that psychosocial factors and symptoms of SBS at their working environment contribute to probable mental health problems among laboratory staffs. The strongest predictors in this study were job insecurity. Hence, further assessment and preventive measures should be carried out to reduce the risk factors of probable mental health problems and to improve working environment among university laboratory staffs.

Retrofitting and purposed-built buildings: indoor air quality and sick building syndrome among private higher learning institution students in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor

This study was done to determine the relationship between indoor air quality and Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among students in Retrofitting Building (Building A) located in Kuala Lumpur and Purposed-built Building (Building B) located in Selangor. A cross sectional study was conducted among student from selected buildings with the total number of 130 respondents. Modified questionnaire based on Indoor Air Quality and Work Symptoms Survey, NIOSH, Indoor Environmental Quality Survey, 1991 was used to record the number of students experienced SBS. Measurement of indoor air quality was performed using instruments recommended by the IAQ Code of Practice, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Malaysia. There was a significantly higher number of occupants experienced SBS in Building A (60 of 65 respondents) compared to Building B (50 of 65 respondents) (Χ 2 = 4.127, p = 0.042). It was also found that there is a significant difference between the numbers of respondents having SBS between Building A and Building B (p < 0.045). Building A had higher CO2, bacteria, fungi, and UFP significantly as compared to Building B. However, only CO was significantly higher in Building B compared to Building A. It is suggested thatregular maintenance of both buildings is compulsory as ventilation played an important role in maintaining good indoor air quality in a building.

Determinación y comparación aerobiológica en tres archivos de la Empresa de Energía de Boyacá, Tunja (Colombia) / Aerobiological cetermination and comparison in three archives of the Empresa de Energia de Boyacá, Tunja (Colombia)

Objetivos: El propósito de este estudio fue determinar las variaciones en la composición y concentración de los agentes aerobiológicos presentes en tres archivos de la Empresa de Energía de Boyacá (EBSA) que pudieran estar causando alergias respiratorias en el personal que trabaja en estas áreas. Materiales y métodos: En el análisis microbiológico del aire se empleó un método de sedimentación usando agar PDA (agar patata-dextrosa) y agar nutritivo, y se registraron datos de temperatura y humedad durante cada toma de muestras, y se recolectaron muestras de polvo para el cultivo de hongos y ácaros. Asimismo, se aplicó una encuesta a los trabajadores con el fin de conocer sintomatología respiratoria sugestiva y se tomaron muestras de fosas nasales. Resultados: Se aisló un promedio de 470,2 UFC/m³, de microorganismos para los tres archivos muestreados. Se identificó 29 géneros, entre bacterias, hongos y levaduras, y una forma fúngica sin identificar, y se apreció una mayor diversidad en las formas fúngicas. Los géneros fúngicos predominantes fueron Cladosporium, Mucor, Penicillium y Alternaria y en menor proporción formas levaduriformes, y se destacó principalmente el género Rhodotorula. Entre las bacterias, los géneros más abundante correspondieron a Pseudomonas, Neisseria y Staphylococcus. De las muestras de fosas nasales se aislaron géneros como Penicillium, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Mucor y Alternaria. En el análisis realizado en las muestras de polvo recolectadas no se observaron ácaros. No se encontró correlación estadísticamente significativa entre el promedio de unidades formadoras de colonia con temperatura y humedad relativa del ambiente. Conclusiones: La presencia significativa de hongos y bacterias en el ambiente y en fosas nasales que es capaz de afectar la salud del personal que labora en los archivos, y en especial de géneros de hongos que pueden tener implicaciones importantes debido al potencial aumento en la liberación de alérgenos de sus esporas y patogenicidad en individuos inmunocomprometidos.

In indoor and outdoor environments there great quantities of particles suspended in the air, they are the atmospheric aerosol. Between particles of biological origin are bacteria, fungal spores, algae, viruses, protozoa, pollen grains. Many researchers believe that fungi are indicators of the level of bio-pollution and are associated with nonspecific clinical symptoms in stays indoors or sick building syndrome Objective: Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the variations in the composition and concentration of the agents aerobiological present in three archives the Boyacá Power Company (EBSA), which could be causing respiratory allergies personnel working in these areas Materials and methods: A gravimetric method was used to perform the microbiological sampling of the air using potato dextrose agar, and agar nutrient, recording temperature and humidity data during each sampling, and collected dust samples for the cultivation of fungi and mites. Also surveyed workers in order to record respiratory symptoms suggestive and sampled the nostrils Results: We isolated an average 470.2 UFC/m³ of microorganisms in the three archives sampled. 29 genera were identified among bacteria, fungi and yeasts, and one non identified structure of fungi, prevalence the more diversity in fungal forms. The predominant fungal genera were Cladosporium, Mucor, Penicillium and Alternaria and to a lesser proportion yeast forms, mainly Rhodotorula genera . Among the bacteria, the most abundant genera corresponded to Pseudomonas, Neisseria, and Staphylococcus. In the samples nostrils were isolated the genera Penicillium, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Mucor and Alternaria. Not observed mites in the analysis the dust samples. No statistically significant correlation was found between mean colony forming units with temperature and relative humidity. Conclusions: The significant presence of fungi and bacteria in the environment and in nostrils are able to affect the health of working in the archives and special genera of fungi that may have important implications because of the potential increase in the release of allergens of their spores and pathogenicity in immunocompromised individuals.

A poluição do ar em ambientes internos e a síndrome dos edifícios doentes / Air pollution in internal environments and sick building syndrome

A Qualidade do Ar Interno (QAI) surgiu como ciência a partir da década de 70 com a crise energética e a consequente construção dos edifícios selados (desprovidos de ventilação natural), principalmente nos países desenvolvidos, e se destacou após a descoberta de que a diminuição das taxas de troca de ar nesses ambientes era a grande responsável pelo aumento da concentração de poluentes no ar interno. Admite-se que a ventilação seja um dos principais fatores que interferem na qualidade do ar interno e que os próprios ocupantes dos edifícios contribuem substancialmente com a poluição destes ambientes através de suas atividades. Sabe-se ainda que a má qualidade do ar interno está associada a doenças (como tosse, rinite, alergia, etc.) e à Síndrome dos Edifícios Doentes (SED). Para amostragem de substâncias gasosas no ar de ambientes internos dispõe-se de diversas metodologias, sendo as principais: sistemas passivos de monitoramento, sistemas ativos e automáticos. Para a efetiva promoção de um ambiente saudável, deve-se conciliar a aplicação de legislações específicas com pesquisas e conscientização dos ocupantes dos edifícios. Essa revisão objetiva relacionar os diferentes contaminantes encontrados em ambientes internos, seus efeitos à saúde humana e suas metodologias de amostragem.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) emerged as a science from the 1970s onwards with the energy crisis and the subsequent construction of sealed buildings (without natural ventilation). This mainly occurred in developed countries and it soon came to public attention that lower levels of air exchange in these environments was the main culprit for the increase in concentration of indoor air pollutants. It is common knowledge that ventilation is one of the principal factors that interfere with air quality in indoor environments and that the occupants contribute to the pollution of these environments with their activities. Furthermore, poor indoor air quality is associated with some diseases (cough, rhinitis, allergy, etc.) and with Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). For sampling of the indoor contaminants there are several methodologies, available including passive monitoring systems, active and automatic systems. To ensure a healthy indoor environment, the application of specific legislation needs to be reconciled with research and fostering awareness among the occupants of such buildings. This survey seeks to identify the different contaminants found in internal environments, their effects on human health and the methodologies available for sampling them.

The Influence of the Sick House Syndrome on Nasal Mucosa and Nasal Symptoms / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Concerns about the quality of indoor air have increased recently. However, there has not been any significant research conducted concerning the patterns of histologic and organic changes induced in humans by indoor air pollution. The aim of the study is to investigate the organic changes of nasal mucosa and nasal symptoms due to exposed concentrations of indoor air pollution. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We studied fourteen people from four families, all of whom had plans to move into new apartments. We measured the quantities of indoor air pollution before their move, one week after moving in, and then one month after the move. Other clinical tests such as an acoustic rhinometry, olfactory tests and nasal smears were performed. RESULTS: Mean concentrations of Total Volatile Organic Chemicals (TVOCs) and aldehydes showed an increase after moving into the new apartments. Post-move acoustic rhinometry, Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center (CCCRC) test and endoscopic findings showed a decrease in nasal function and patency. Additionally, in nasal smears, eosinophils with bilobulated nuclei were observed, and eosinophil count showed a pattern of increase. CONCLUSION: High concentrations of indoor air pollutants could induce organic changes of the nasal cavities and cause the recession of olfactory function. Due to indoor air pollutants, hypersensitivity of nasal mucosa was induced, and histological changes of nasal mucosa as well as hematological changes were observed. These indicate that indoor air pollution impinges on the nasal mucosa and cause nasal symptoms.

Análise de um acidente por contaminação fúngica em uma biblioteca pública no município do Rio de Janeiro / Analysis of a fungal contamination accident at a public library in Rio de Janeiro

Partindo de um acidente de contaminação por fungos ocorrido em dezembro de 1997 em uma biblioteca pública no município do Rio de Janeiro, foi testada a aplicabilidade de uma proposta metodológica de análise sociotécnica de acidentes, que foi desenvolvida pelo Centro de Estudo de Saúde do Trabalhador e Ecologia Humana (CESTEH/Fiocruz), para análise de acidentes industriais ampliados. O acidente foi conseqüência de um fato anunciado meses antes, quando os trabalhadores da biblioteca denunciaram, através de um abaixo-assinado,os problemas de descontrole da temperatura ambiente, que se traduzia em desconforto, sintomas respiratórios e afastamento do trabalho, decorrentes daquelas condições. O evento foi caracterizado como um caso de Síndrome do Edifício Doente, que é um problema decorrente da má qualidade do ar de interiores, especialmente em ambientes climatizados artificialmente. Nesse sentido, despertou a atenção dos profissionais de bibliotecas do Brasil para um problema bastante comum, embora pouco estudado, especialmente no campo da saúde pública e, dentro dela, o campo da saúde do trabalhador.

The applicability of a methodology to analyze large industrial accidents using social-technical analysis developed by the Center of Studies on Workers Health and Human Ecology (CESTEH/Fiocruz) was tested in a fungal contamination accident occurred in December 1997 at a public library in Rio de Janeiro. The accident was due to problems in controlling the ambient temperature, which resulted in discomfort, breathing symptoms, and sick leave. The library workers, through a signed petition, had already brought the problem forward. It was characterized as a case of Sick Building Syndrome, which is caused by bad indoor air quality, especially in acclimatized environments. The event made Brazilian librarians aware of an issue which, in spite of being rather ordinary,is still not very well known within the of Public Health, particularly in the area of Workers Health.

Comparative study of simple semiquantitative dust mite allergen tests

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>Two simple, commercially available and semiquantitative dust mite allergen tests, namely, the Acarex test(®) and Mitey Checker(®), were compared using 2 and 10 μg of Der 1 allergen per gram of dust, as evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to clarify which method is better suited for practical use.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Mite allergen exposure levels of 106 floor, bed and sofa surfaces were evaluated by the Acarex test(®), Mitey Checker(®), and ELISA. A template of 100 cm×100cm was placed on the same surfaces to identify the examined areas. A dust collection filter was attached to a vacuum cleaner, and the area in the template (1 m(2)) was vacuumed. Then, to evaluate the other two tests, samples from the two other areas in the template (1 m(2)) that neighbored each other and did not overlap were vacuumed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>To predict Der 1 levels of 2 μg/g dust or higher, the sensitivity and specificity of the Acarex test(®) were 100% and 13.3%, and those, of Mitey Checker(®) were 91.8% and 71.1%, respectively. To predict Der 1 levels of 10 μg/g dust or higher, the sensitivity and specificity of the Acarex test(®) were 50.0% and 96.2%, and those of Mitey Checker(®) were 85.7% and 79.5%, respectively. Compared with Der 1<2.0, 2.0-9.9.≥10.0 (μg/g dust), the percent agreement and kappa of the Acarex test(®) were 47.2% and 0.234, and those of Mitey Checker(®) were 70.0% and 0.505, respectively.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>To evaluate mite allergen exposure level for practical use in Japanese living environments, Mitey Checker(®) is better than the Acarex test(®) because of its higher sensitivity and specificity.</p>

Comparative Study of Simple Semiquantitative Dust Mite Allergen Tests

Objective: Two simple, commercially available and semiquantitative dust mite allergen tests, namely, the Acarex test® and Mitey Checker®, were compared using 2 and 10 μg of Der 1 allergen per gram of dust, as evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to clarify which method is better suited for practical use. Methods: Mite allergen exposure levels of 106 floor, bed and sofa surfaces were evaluated by the Acarex test®, Mitey Checker®, and ELISA. A template of 100 cm×100 cm was placed on the same surfaces to identify the examined areas. A dust collection filter was attached to a vacuum cleaner, and the area in the template (1 m2) was vacuumed. Then, to evaluate the other two tests, samples from the two other areas in the template (1 m2) that neighbored each other and did not overlap were vacuumed. Results: To predict Der 1 levels of 2 μg/g dust or higher, the sensitivity and specificity of the Acarex test® were 100% and 13.3%, and those of Mitey Checker® were 91.8% and 71.1%, respectively. To predict Der 1 levels of 10 μg/g dust or higher, the sensitivity and specificity of the Acarex test® were 50.0% and 96.2%, and those of Mitey Checker® were 85.7% and 79.5%, respectively. Compared with Der 1<2.0, 2.0-9.9, ≥10.0 (μg/g dust), the percent agreement and kappa of the Acarex test® were 47.2% and 0.234, and those of Mitey Checker® were 70.0% and 0.505, respectively. Conclusion: To evaluate mite allergen exposure level for practical use in Japanese living environments, Mitey Checker® is better than the Acarex test® because of its higher sensitivity and specificity.

Indoor airborne mold spores in newly built dwellings

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the relationships between sick building syndrome and mold in newly-built dwellings.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Symptoms of 61 residents in 18 dwellings were surveyed by standardized questionnaires. Mold sampling was done by gravity sampling using an open Petri dish. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) and dichloran-18% glycerol agar (DG-18) were used as the culture medium.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were 6 dwellings in which at least one inhabitant complained of one or more symptoms and 12 dwellings in which none of the inhabitants complained of symptoms. There was a tendency for the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms to have larger colony forming units (CFU) on PDA than those without inhabitants reporting symptoms (p=0.1), but there was no difference in DG-18 result. There was a tendency for the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms to have larger CFU ofCladosporium on PDA than those without (p=0.08), but there was no difference in DG-18 result. Significantly moreUlocladium sp. was detected in the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms than in those without (p=0.03).Cladosporium cladosporioides was detected in all the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms and 75% of the dwellings without.Cladosporium macrocarpum andCladosporium herbarum were detected in 33% of the dwellings with inhabitants reporting e symptoms and none of the dwellings without (p=0.1).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Cladosporium was dominant in the Japanese newly-built dwellings studied, andCladosporium andUlocladium were probably associated with the residents' symptoms in these newly-built dwellings.</p>

Indoor Airborne Mold Spores in Newly Built Dwellings

Objective: To investigate the relationships between sick building syndrome and mold in newly-built dwellings. Methods: Symptoms of 61 residents in 18 dwellings were surveyed by standardized questionnaires. Mold sampling was done by gravity sampling using an open Petri dish. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) and dichloran-18% glycerol agar (DG-18) were used as the culture medium. Results: There were 6 dwellings in which at least one inhabitant complained of one or more symptoms and 12 dwellings in which none of the inhabitants complained of symptoms. There was a tendency for the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms to have larger colony forming units (CFU) on PDA than those without inhabitants reporting symptoms (p=0.1), but there was no difference in DG-18 result. There was a tendency for the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms to have larger CFU of Cladosporium on PDA than those without (p=0.08), but there was no difference in DG-18 result. Significantly more Ulocladium sp. was detected in the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms than in those without (p=0.03). Cladosporium cladosporioides was detected in all the dwellings with inhabitants reporting symptoms and 75% of the dwellings without. Cladosporium macrocarpum and Cladosporium herbarum were detected in 33% of the dwellings with inhabitants reporting e symptoms and none of the dwellings without (p=0.1). Conclusion: Cladosporium was dominant in the Japanese newly-built dwellings studied, and Cladosporium and Ulocladium were probably associated with the residents’ symptoms in these newly-built dwellings.

Evaluation of Indoor Air Quality in a Department of Radiation Oncology Located Underground / 대한방사선종양학회지

PURPOSE: Indoor air quality (IAQ) in the radiation treatment center which is generally located underground is important to the health of hospital workers and patients treated over a long period of time. This study was conducted to measure and analyze the factors related to IAQ and subjective symptoms of sick building syndrome, and to establish the causes influencing IAQ and find a solution to the problems. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Self administrated questionnaire was conducted to check the workers' symptoms and understanding of the work environment. Based on a preliminary investigation, the factors related to IAQ such as temperature, humidity, fine particulate. carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and radon gas were selected and measured for a certain period of time in specific sites where hospital workers stay long in a day. And we also evaluated the surrounding environment and the efficiency of the ventilating system simultaneously, and measured the same factors at the first floor (outdoor) to compare with outdoor air quality. All collected data were assessed by the recommended standard for IAQ of the domestic and international environmental organizations. RESULTS: Hospital workers were discontented with foul odors, humidity and particulate. They complained symptoms related to musculo-skeletal system, neurologic system, and mucosal-irritatation. Most of the factors were not greater than the recommended standard, but the level of TVOC was third or fourth times as much as the measuring level of some offices in the United States. The frequency and the amount of the ventilating system were adequate, however, the problem arising in the position of outdoor-air inlets and indoor-air outlets involved a risk of the indraft of contaminated air. A careful attention was a requirement in handling and keeping chemical substances including a developing solution which has a risk of TVOC emissions, and repositioning the ventilating system was needed to solve the contaminated-air circulation immediately. CONCLUSION: We verified that some IAQ-related factors and inadequate ventilating system could cause subjective symptoms in hospital workers. The evaluation of IAQ was surely needed to improve the underground working environments for hospital workers and patients. On the basis of these data, from now on, we should actively engage in designs of the department of radiation oncology or improvement in environments of the existing facilities.

Air movement, gender and risk of sick building headache among employees in a Jakarta office.

Even though office buildings are usually equipped with ventilation system or air conditioning to create a comfortable working environment, yet there is still found a number of sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms. One of the symptoms of SBS is SBS headache. Therefore, it is crucial to identify risk factors related to SBS headache. Cases were subjects who have suffered SBS headache, and controls were subjects who did not suffered headache for the last one month. Cases and controls were selected through a survey on all of employees in the said office during the period of May to August 2002. Total respondents were 240 employees including 36 people suffered SBS headache (15%). Compared to the normal air movement, faster air movement decreased the risk of SBS headache by 57% [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.43; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.19-0.95]. Female employees, compared to the males ones, had a higher risk of getting SBS headache by almost three times (adjusted OR = 2.96: 95% CI: 1.29-6.75). Employees who had breakfast irregularly, had a lower risk to SBS headache than those who have breakfast regularly (adjusted OR=0.31; 95% CI: 0.09-0.84). Temperature, humidity and smoking habits were not noted correlated to SBS headache. Female workers had greater risk of suffering SBS headache. In addition slower air movement increased the risk of SBS headache. Therefore, it is recommended to improve the progress of air in order to reduce the risk of SBS headache, especially for female workplace.