Headache, lethargy, nausea, drowsiness, and dizziness

Notes: If onset was sudden or severe, check for carbon monoxide posoning. Note if symptoms dissipate after leaving the building or room. These symptoms have many potential causes, so check for adequate ventilation or unusual pollutant sources in hte building or room.

Possible Contaminants:

• Biological
  • Is there an odor of mold or mildew in or near the complaint area?
  • Is there mold or any animals present?
  • Is there standing water near the complaint area, or instide the air handler or ductwork?
  • Is condensation often present on windows or cold surfaces?
  • Is indoor relative humidity above 60%?
  • Excess moisture can cause mold, fungi, dust mites, and some bacteria to flourish.
• Housekeeping
  • Do complaints occur during or just after housekeeping activities?
  • Do housekeeping activities take place near the complainants?
  • Are any new products in use?
  • Are housekeeping products used according to directions?
  • Are products stored in sealed containers or in vented rooms?
• Outdoor
  • Are sources of odor or pollutants (e.g., vehicles, stored chemicals, trash) located near outdoor air intakes?
  • Are there sources nearby or upwind:
    • combustion byproducts from traffic, loading docks, or flue exhausts?
    • industrial, agricultural, or lawn care activity?
  • Are pollen levels high?
• Building
  • Has there been recent painting, roofing, or other remodeling or construction?
  • Were pericides applied recently near the complaint area?
  • Has new furniture, flooring, or equipment been installed?
  • Are solvents or other chemicals stored in poorly sealed containers?
  • Is it overly dusty?
• Air Temperature and Humidity
  • Is the thermostat properly set?
  • Is air flowing from the vent warm (for heating) or cool (for cooling)?
  • Are drafts or direct sunlight causing discomfort?
  • Is humdity too high or low (best if between 30-60% relative humidity)?
  • Is condensation often present on windows or other cold surfaces?
  • Is there an objectionable odor?
• Outdoor Air Supply
  • Is the ventilation system turned on?
  • Are the vents blocked?
  • Is air flowing from the vents?
  • Is the outdoor air intake blocked?
  • Is air flowing into the outdoor air intake?
  • Is the duct blocked?
  • Is the outdoor air intake supply at least 15 cfm per person?
  • Is carbon dioxide in the area less than 1000 ppm?
• Air Handling Unit
  • Is the system turned on?
  • Is air flowing from the vents?
  • Is the fan operating?
  • Are the filters clean and properly installed?
  • Are the dampers operating properly?
  • Is there moisture, debris, or microbial growth in or near the unit?
  • Is the drain pan clean and draining?
  • Are the coils clean?
  • Is combustion equipment properly vented, no flue leaks or backdrafting?
• Local Exhaust
  • Does the exhaust turn on?
  • Is the exhaust used when needed?
  • Is air flowing out of the exhaust vent?
  • Is the exhaust ductwork blocked?
  • Is a sufficient amount of air being exhausted?
  • If everything works, but not enough air is being exhausted, can make up air easily enter the room (e.g., through spcaces under doors)?