Validation of the Brazilian version of the questionnaire for detection of sick building syndrome

Abstract

Objectives. This study aimed to perform content and construct validation of the questionnaire for detection of sick building syndrome for health-care workers in the Brazilian context; and to evaluate the length of employment in relation to the level of exposure to occupational risks that trigger occupational disease. Methods. This methodological and cross-sectional study consisted of validation of the questionnaire for detection of sick building syndrome for Brazil, and application of this to health workers. The questionnaire was validated through two axes: content and construct by contrasted groups. Results. The general index corresponded to 0.81, considering the instrument validated as to content. Fleiss’ K index showed an inter-rater agreement of 68.59%, with a free margin of 0.53. Regarding the analysis by contrasted groups, there was a significant association with the two contrasted groups for time of work in the building and in the sector with some variables described as follows: age group, level of education, time of work in the position, satisfaction with the usual working hours, promotion of workers, etc. Conclusion. It is hoped that the validation of this questionnaire can contribute to a greater visibility of this pathology in the Brazilian worker’s health scenario.

Keywords:

• sick building syndrome
• health personnel
• validation study
• surveys and questionnaires
• nursing

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.