A risk management firm is urging Bradford employers to cut staff illness by improving office conditions.

Smithson Mason Group (SMG), which has offices in the city, says up to half a million employees in Yorkshire could be suffering from Sick Building Syndrome. (SBS)

SBS is the term used to describe a range of symptoms, from headaches and nasal complaints through to visual and concentration problems, suffered by office workers.

The condition is associated with a group of environmental factors including poor ventilation, lighting and heating, along with badly- designed work stations and screen glare.

Joint managing director of SMG, Martin Hill, said: "SBS can wreak havoc for businesses, particularly small companies where an outbreak of flu can wipe out half its workforce.

"Employers therefore need to ensure that office conditions help prevent illnesses, rather than encouraging them."

The company is advising businesses to:

l Ensure all ventilation systems are cleaned regularly.

l Assess dust and dirt levels which can aggravate breathing complaints.

l Maximise natural daylight and avoid fluorescent lighting.