If your employees often complain of headaches, fatigue, eye irritation or allergies while at work, your office may be affected by Sick-Building Syndrome (SBS). This occurs when indoor air quality (IAQ) is compromised — often due to dust build-up, poor ventilation, or inadequate cleaning.
In fast-paced Sydney workplaces, a strategic commercial cleaning plan plays a critical role in preventing SBS, protecting your team’s health, and improving productivity.
What Is Sick-Building Syndrome?
Sick-Building Syndrome refers to a range of health symptoms experienced by people spending time in a building with poor IAQ. Unlike specific illnesses, SBS is usually linked to the environment rather than a single cause.
Common symptoms include:
- Headaches and fatigue
- Eye, nose or throat irritation
- Coughing or congestion
- Itchy skin or rashes
- Difficulty concentrating
These symptoms typically ease after leaving the building — a clear sign that the indoor environment is to blame.
The Role of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Good IAQ is essential for a healthy workplace. When dust, mould spores, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) build up indoors, they can:
- Reduce employee well-being and focus
- Increase sick days
- Lower overall productivity
- Create legal and compliance issues in some industries
Proactive cleaning and proper ventilation can significantly improve IAQ.
Cleaning Practices That Prevent Sick-Building Syndrome
1. Routine Dust Control
Dust accumulation is one of the most common IAQ offenders. Dust harbours allergens, pollen, and microscopic pollutants.
Best practices:
- Daily wipe-down of desks and shared surfaces
- High-filtration vacuuming of floors and carpets
- Microfibre cloths to trap fine dust instead of spreading it
Regular Office Cleaning helps maintain a dust-free environment.
2. Deep Carpet Cleaning
Carpets act like air filters — trapping dust, dirt, allergens, and even bacteria. Without deep cleaning, they can contribute heavily to SBS.
Best practices:
- Vacuum daily in high-traffic areas
- Schedule professional steam or hot water extraction at least quarterly
- Use low-VOC carpet cleaning products
Book a Professional Office Carpet Cleaning service to remove allergens and improve air quality.
3. Air Vent and Filter Maintenance
Even with the best cleaning routine, unclean HVAC systems can spread pollutants back into the air.
Best practices:
- Clean and replace air filters regularly
- Wipe down vents and grilles
- Schedule professional HVAC cleaning as part of your maintenance plan
4. Use Low-Toxicity Cleaning Products
Harsh chemical cleaners release VOCs, worsening IAQ. To prevent this:
- Choose eco-friendly, low-toxicity cleaning products
- Avoid aerosol sprays
- Ensure rooms are well-ventilated during cleaning
This keeps the air fresh and reduces chemical exposure for staff.
5. Control Mould and Moisture
Dampness and mould can trigger respiratory problems and SBS symptoms.
Best practices:
- Regularly inspect and clean bathrooms and kitchens
- Use dehumidifiers in damp-prone areas
- Address leaks immediately
IAQ Cleaning Schedule for Healthy Workplaces
| Frequency | Cleaning Task | IAQ Impact |
| Daily | Dusting, vacuuming, disinfecting | Reduces allergens, prevents dust build-up |
| Weekly | Kitchen & restroom deep clean | Eliminates bacteria and mould |
| Monthly | Vent & air filter maintenance | Improves airflow, reduces airborne particles |
| Quarterly | Carpet steam clean & HVAC servicing | Removes hidden pollutants and allergens |
Beyond Cleaning: Additional IAQ Tips
- Maximise natural ventilation whenever possible.
- Add indoor plants to help absorb pollutants and increase oxygen levels.
- Schedule regular air quality assessments if your building has recurring SBS complaints.
Partnering With Professionals for Long-Term IAQ Health
A clean office is about more than appearance — it’s about health, productivity, and compliance. At Royce Cleaning, we specialise in creating custom cleaning schedules that actively improve indoor air quality in Sydney workplaces.
We provide:
- Comprehensive Office Cleaning solutions
- Carpet Cleaning to remove deep contaminants
- Eco-friendly products to reduce airborne VOCs
Contact us today to protect your team and workplace from Sick-Building Syndrome.
Key Takeaways
- Sick-Building Syndrome impacts health and productivity.
- Poor IAQ is often linked to dust, mould, and poor cleaning practices.
- Regular, structured cleaning reduces airborne pollutants.
- Partnering with a professional cleaning company ensures consistent IAQ improvements.
A clean workplace is a healthy workplace — and your team deserves the best.
