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Turn down the volume in your workplace

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December 27, 2023

In any office space, whether it’s designed for a large number of occupants or just a few, noise can have a big impact on office productivity.

No matter if you’re building, remodeling or just looking to make some changes, there are things employers can do to help reduce noise in your office space.

Enclose the source of the noise
Printers, copiers, coffee machines and even water stations are frequently used and can generate their fair share of noise, especially when more than one user is present at the same time.

By enclosing them in a separate room or using a panel and wall system, you can reduce the amount of noise that reaches people working nearby.

Consider using sound-absorbing materials
While solid surfaces can be a stylish aesthetic for your office, choosing materials that absorb rather than reflect sounds can help lower the volume in your office and distractions. 

The use of acoustic fabric on wall panels, carpeted floors, tapestries and acoustic ceiling tiles with a high noise reduction coefficient (NRC) can all help control the noise level in your space while creating a visually inviting environment.

Use sound against sound
Adding sound to a space may seem counter-intuitive, but it is a great way to make it seem quieter.

A sound masking system provides consistent, ambient noise that reduces speech intelligibility from nearby or adjacent spaces.

Consult with your design professional to get the conversation started on this useful technology.

Go green with live plants
Plants not only liven up the work area, but they can also reduce noise.

Plants and living walls can be used as partitions to buffer office noise and create a more tranquil environment.

Hanging plants can help block sounds from traveling up or through windows.

Plus, having plants in the workplace can provide a connection to nature, boost oxygen levels and, depending on the variety you select, help clean the air.

Offer a variety of workspaces
While open office and group meeting spaces can encourage collaboration and a sense of belonging in the workplace, there are times when quiet, private spaces are key to productivity. Quiet zones can be created with high-walled cubicles, individual offices, conference room spaces and even rooms within a room.

These zones are intended for concentration, wellness, rest and study.

Offering a variety of workspaces, including some that are less stimulating, can accommodate different people and workstyles, showing you value your workforce.

Insulate the noise
When constructing a brand-new office space, consider the type of insulation that will be used.

Insulation doesn’t just help moderate temperature – it can help moderate sound as well. Thermal acoustic insulation, installed in a wall cavity, reduces sound transmission from one side of the wall to the other.

When working with your design and construction partner, be sure to ask about the best insulation for your circumstances.

Sound is a normal part of most work environments, but it can become a distraction when completing highly focused work.

During your next construction or remodeling project, consider incorporating some of these effective ways to reduce excess noise and create an enjoyable work environment for all.

TBN
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