Concern over a business' liability for the quality of indoor air is also warranted for several reasons. Several well-publicized court cases involving air quality conditions, including the previously mentioned EPA case, are helping raise awareness of the issue even further. Additionally, the insurance industry has seen an increase in claims related to air quality. The symptoms of sickness caused by air quality hazards are well known and getting increased attention from the media, health professionals, the insurance industry, and both state and federal regulatory agencies. Symptoms can range from headaches, dizziness or various burning irritations to more intense cases of asthma, lung diseases or Legionnaire's Disease.
Asbestos continues to be a priority concern.
If a tenant or builder unknowingly disturbs asbestos, they could experience burning sensations of the eyes, nose and lungs. It is important to remember that the regulations OSHA finalized in 1995 require long-term management of existing asbestos, but do not require major renovations or removal. Although lead paint has not been used in residential buildings since 1978, lead which is already present in a building or left by a previous tenant can become airborne as dust during renovations or other activities. In one recent insurance claim, a new building tenant faced a period of business interruption and the cost of cleaning up lead dust left by the previous tenant. Additionally, the use of harmful chemical cleaning compounds, vehicle exhaust and cigarette smoke by one tenant can pose significant harm to others.