Demonstration of microorganisms and dust in schools and offices. An observational study of non-industrial buildings.

ABSTRACT

"The sick-building syndrome" (WHO) is reported with increasing intensity in non-industrial places of work, such as schools, kindergartens, and offices, all of which have a heavy load of traffic (people). The construction of these buildings (e.g. flat roofs) often leads to water damage with subsequent microbial growth. Further, reduced cleaning budgets in connection with the wide use of needle-felt carpets, as well as ventilation systems not regularly maintained, will lead to pollution by dust and microorganisms. A systematic registration of dust and microbial parameters has been carried out since 1980 in buildings with indoor climate complaints, in order to elucidate the possible influence of these factors.