Indoor VOC Exposure and SBS Symptoms in a Humid Tropical Region

(A Case Study of Mako Polrestabes Surabaya)

Authors

  • Choirul Anam Magister of Architecture, University of Merdeka Malang
  • Nurhamdoko Bonifacius University of Merdeka Malang, Indonesia
  • Nurul Aini University of Merdeka Malang, Indonesia

Keywords:

Volatile Organic Compounds, Sick Building Syndrome, indoor air quality, office buildings, employees

Abstract

Indoor air quality is crucial to supporting employee health, particularly in colonial-heritage buildings
adapted for modern office use. This study aims to analyze the relationship between exposure to Volatile
Organic Compounds (VOCs) and the incidence of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among employees at
the Surabaya Police Headquarters Building. The study employed an observational analytical approach
with a cross-sectional design. TVOC concentrations were measured in seven work units, while SBS
symptoms were identified using a structured questionnaire. The results showed a significant correlation
between TVOC concentrations and the intensity of SBS symptoms. The validity of SBS symptoms at
the study site was reinforced by the WHO's "golden criteria," where respondents' health complaints
decreased dramatically immediately after leaving the building. Furthermore, architectural findings
indicate that limited room dimensions significantly contribute to pollutant stagnation, with larger rooms
proving more effective at passively dispersing VOC emissions. This conclusion confirms that spatial
configuration and control of emission sources are crucial preventive interventions in the revitalization
of heritage buildings to maintain their health and functionality.

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Published

2026-08-29

How to Cite

Choirul Anam, Nurhamdoko Bonifacius, & Nurul Aini. (2026). Indoor VOC Exposure and SBS Symptoms in a Humid Tropical Region : (A Case Study of Mako Polrestabes Surabaya). Proceedings of International Conference of Graduate School on Sustainability, 10, 601–606. Retrieved from https://jurnal.unmer.ac.id/index.php/icgss/article/view/17647

Issue

Vol. 10 (2025)

Section

Articles

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