A Health-Oriented Three-Layer Hybrid BIM–LCA Conceptual Model for Addressing Sick Building Syndrome: Evidence from Four Case Studies

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Master Student. Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Science & Research Branch

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Science & Research Branch.

Abstract
Sick Building Syndrome is a major concern because of its direct impact on the health and productivity of building occupants. Addressing this issue requires a new framework for analysis, control, and management. In this context, adopting health-oriented technologies to manage and monitor indoor environments is essential. Previous research shows that Building Information Modeling and Life Cycle Assessment have been widely applied over the last decade, but mainly from the perspectives of energy efficiency and sustainability. Much less attention has been paid to user health or the real-time monitoring of comfort, and no integrated health-oriented framework combining these two technologies has yet been introduced. This study presents a three-layer hybrid BIM–LCA conceptual model with a health-oriented perspective. The model provides a coherent structure by examining causal paths between environmental and physical conditions, analytical technologies, and human outcomes. Its key innovation is the integration of real-time monitoring with a focus on occupant health, enabling continuous control of indoor environments and offering decision-makers a practical tool for reducing SBS symptoms. The research methodology is based on a systematic review combined with qualitative and quantitative analyses of prior studies. The model was validated using data from two international studies and two local case studies conducted by the author. Results demonstrate that the model effectively represents causal relationships among environmental, managerial, and human variables, and that it can be generalized to diverse design and operational contexts. This research provides a comprehensive framework for addressing SBS through the integration of BIM and LCA.

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  • Receive Date 24 April 2026
  • Revise Date 28 May 2026
  • Accept Date 31 May 2026
  • First Publish Date 31 May 2026
  • Publish Date 22 June 2026