HEALTH COMPLAINTS AFTER MOVING INTO A NEW OFFICE BUILDING: RESULTS OF AN EIGHTEEN MONTHS FOLLOW-UP STUDY

摘要

After moving into a new office building employees complained about health problems attributed to dust exposure.Measurements revealed increased levels of phthalates and trisphosphates. A questionnaire study that demonstrated a high prevalence of symptoms after moving in and predominately negative ratings of office environment. To improve the situation several measures were taken. Eighteen month later a follow-up study was conducted to evaluate the effects of these measures. Overall 71subjects (67%) returned the follow-up questionnaire on health complaints and environmental conditions at the workplace. Compared to the first investigation, the follow-up demonstrated a decrease of symptoms and an improvement of general well-being. Although there was no significant association between the perception of dust and well-being,an association between unfavorable room climate and perception of dust was found. Measures, such as weekly wet cleaning, measurement of dust composition and the participation of the employees in planned interventions seem to have had positive effects on the perception of the environmental condition, and on health and well-being.