Factors affecting multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) in newly constructed apartments of Indonesia

Abstract

In Indonesia, sick building syndrome (SBS) and related health problems possibly caused by chemicals are suspected among residents in newly constructed urban houses, in which modern building materials are used without sufficient material standards and the minimum ventilation rates. This paper analyzes the causal relationships of factors affecting multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) in urban houses in Indonesia. The measured IAQ data from three major cities of Indonesia (n = 207) were calibrated, and a structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed to identify the factors affecting MCS from a questionnaire survey in apartments and Kampong (n = 896). The results showed that the respondents living in a higher concentration of either formaldehyde or TVOC tended to have higher MCS risk, especially in the apartments. Overall, the apartments exhibited poor air quality rates, with the average maximum values of 0.172 ppm formaldehyde and 1.64 mg/m3 TVOC, potentially resulting in allergic problems and MCS risk among residents. In Kampongs, the building age was observed to increase the dampness, thereafter possibly causing allergies and MCS among residents. The results of this study implied that higher MCS in the apartments was majorly affected not only by their allergic conditions but also by additional factors concerning building attributes and occupant behavior.