What does "sick building syndrome" refer to?

"Sick building syndrome" refers to a condition wherein occupants of a building experience a range of symptoms that can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and eye, nose, or throat irritation, which are believed to be linked to the indoor air quality (IAQ) of that building. This phenomenon often occurs when individuals are exposed to poor ventilation, chemical contaminants from building materials, or biological pollutants like mold and bacteria. The term highlights the relationship between the health complaints of those within the space and the quality of the air they are breathing.

In contrast, options focusing on allergies to building materials or legal terms related to building code violations do not capture the essence of sick building syndrome, which specifically involves the collective health issues experienced by occupants due to the indoor environment. Similarly, a type of construction defect does not correlate directly to the symptoms experienced by individuals; rather, sick building syndrome emphasizes the health effects resulting from suboptimal indoor conditions. Therefore, understanding sick building syndrome is crucial for improving indoor air quality and ensuring a healthier environment in commercial and residential spaces.