Abstract
Building-related health symptoms are multifactorial, hence a comprehensive study is needed to identify associations of such symptoms with building aspects. Previous studies have identified certain building characteristics as risk factors for both dry eyes and headaches, which are among the most prevalent symptoms suffered by office workers. This study investigated associations of dry eyes and headaches with building characteristics in outpatient areas because these conditions may vary between office and hospital buildings. A survey was performed in six hospital buildings, which included administering a questionnaire to 556 outpatient workers and an inspection of the building locations, services and 127 outpatient rooms. Multivariate regression models were produced for dry eyes and headaches. Both models were adjusted for personal and work-related aspects. The prevalence of self-reported dry eyes and headaches in outpatient areas was related to building-related aspects that affect the indoor air quality and visual quality, and to room types. In general, this study is consistent with previous office studies. However, a specific finding of this study is the association of the most frequently used room types and the presence of a window to the corridor with dry eyes and headaches.
Highlights
Since the demand on healthcare is growing, driven by an ageing population, risks for pandemics, and an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases,[1] the pressure on hospital staff is increasing
The high prevalence of self-reported dry eyes and headaches in outpatient areas may be explained by buildingrelated aspects, in particular aspects that affect the indoor air quality and visual quality, as well as the functionality of rooms
An overlap was found of building-related aspects that were associated with both dry eyes and headaches
Summary
Since the demand on healthcare is growing, driven by an ageing population, risks for pandemics, and an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases,[1] the pressure on hospital staff is increasing. Other adverse effects of buildingrelated symptoms can be sick-leave[13,14] or a decrease in productivity.[15]
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