It’s no secret that workplace acoustics is one of the most significant factors in employee satisfaction.
Loud offices can hinder productivity, increase absenteeism and staff turnover, and make for a less enjoyable place to work.
One of the most common employee complaints is about excessive noise, and it has the power to turn a productive and happy office into an unpleasant environment.
Talking is the most significant noise sources in a workplace, but distracting and irritating sounds can come from printers, air conditioners, phones, computers, and nearby traffic and construction.
The modern trend towards open-plan offices and collaborative spaces has only made the issue worse, as sound bounces around off walls and hard floor surfaces with very little to absorb the noise.
Safe Work Australia recommends that if “your work requires high concentration”, noise in the office should be kept below 50 decibels.
However, conversations can range between 60 and 80 decibels, and other sources of noise can push the decibel count far above the recommended level.
Poor office acoustics heightens stress levels, decreases focus, hinders collaboration and can lead to long-term health issues.
The key to lowering noise levels in any busy area is reducing the sound that reflects off walls and other objects, also known as echo or reverberation. Installing sound-absorbing material can have a huge impact on reducing the overall decibel count of your workplace. But no two offices are the same, so it can be hard to figure out the best solution.
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We’ve narrowed down the top five acoustic products used in modern-day workplaces to help reduce reverberation and improve the overall health and morale of your staff:
Peel ‘n’ Stick Tiles
If you’re looking for a super simple and effective way to lower reverberated noise, Peel ‘n’ Stick Tiles are available in a huge range of colours to suit any office. Simply peel back the film and stick straight to your walls! Who said acoustic treatment has to be boring?
Autex Composition
For a more heavy-duty acoustic solution, Composition decorative wall fabric is perfect for absorbing noise in busy workplaces. Easily installed on most surfaces, Composition is pinnable and Velcro-receptive, making it a versatile addition to your office. Check out how we helped the Selective Hearing audiology clinic minimise noise in their waiting room by installing Composition material.
Quietspace Accent Ceiling Tiles
A creative approach to improving acoustics while saving space and adding some colour to your office, Accent Ceiling Tiles offer exceptional noise reduction performance. We installed Quietspace Panels at the new offices of SGC Media to help combat the large open spaces and hard reflective surfaces.
Autex Horizon
Perfect for open areas where noise travels around, Autex Horizon panels are available in five designs and can be suspended from the ceiling to create a visual statement while significantly reducing reverberation.
Quietspace Frontier
To address reverberation issues in larger spaces, the Quietspace Frontier range of hanging acoustic panels are a practical and visually striking solution. They can be suspended from the ceiling or directly fixed in place to suit your needs, and are available in four different designs. Perfect for call centres or offices where staff are often on the phone.
No matter the layout of your workplace, there is a perfect option for you to reduce reverberation levels and make for a happier, safer and more productive workplace.
Check out our dedicated Acoustics Page!