Acoustic challenges at work
In companies, acoustics can play an equally important role as in concert halls. To ensure the confidentiality of an interview room in a lawyer’s office, to prevent clients of a call centre from hearing the cacophony of the many agents on the phone or to help with concentration in a library, the acoustics of a room will directly influence the efficiency of the place according to its vocation and the well-being of the people in this space.
Our effectiveness at work obviously depends on many, many factors. One is the type of environment we work in, and it is too often taken lightly. By simple omission or fear of significant expense, poor acoustics planning in a workspace can greatly influence the work environment. It could also play a role in the productivity of the employees who work there. A multitude of products exist to avoid these losses of productivity.
Technology to the rescue
Technological tools such as noise-cancelling headphones or simple in-ear headphones can sometimes help solve the problem, but you have to know how to play the music or sounds that will allow you to work well. And let’s be honest, not everyone is comfortable working with headphones! We must then turn to other acoustic solutions.
Panel systems
Cubicle panels or partitions are products that are often considered “miracle solutions”. These panels are classified with ITC/NRC performance specifications to assist in product selection. Although these panels have an influence on the acoustics of a space, their effect is often overestimated in relation to the construction of the site itself. The covering and composition of the floor, ceiling and walls have a major effect on acoustics.
Architectural partitions are, in a simplified way, solid or glass walls that do not require construction or demolition. They also allow simple reconfiguration when the company is experiencing growth or decline. The acoustic performance of these partitions varies from one manufacturer to another or from one type of partition to another, but the performance may, contrary to popular belief, be superior to a gypsum wall. This solution is increasingly being used by companies that plan for medium- to long-term growth and do not want to spend too quickly.
Various acoustic solutions
Of course, there are not only panel systems, earphones and architectural partitions. Without making an exhaustive list, the various products that can be used to limit the flow of sound in a room are: acoustic ceiling tiles that exist in a multitude of shapes, design and composition, the existing wall panels also in a variety of shapes, designs and compositions, and the sound masking systems that play the role of “covering the sounds”.
The right solution for your environment exists. Our partners and acoustics specialists can help find the solution that meets both the need and the budget of each project. Just ask for it!
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