According to several studies, noise remains one of the leading causes of disturbance in the workplace. While guaranteeing employee comfort, controlling noise improves concentration and efficiency. From furnishings to accessories, there are many complementary solutions.
The figures bear this out: 59% of working people say they are bothered by noise in their workplace, according to a JNA-Ifop survey conducted in October 2019. This finding extends beyond industry and construction. An IPSOS survey carried out for AXA in 2019 among civil servants in education and culture reveals that 62% say they work in a difficult professional environment, notably because of noise.
An economic and social cost
What are the consequences? The JNA-Ifop survey mentioned above highlights the loss of productivity (51%), misunderstandings (47%) or aggressiveness (42%) felt by employees complaining about noise. The loss of effective working time is estimated at up to 31 min per day.
Ideally, noise levels in offices or open spaces should be between 35 dB and 55 dB maximum (cf. AFNOR standards NF X35-102 and NF S31-199), the so-called "pain threshold" being 80dB. The average working conversation is estimated at 60 dB. The sound of a photocopier or coffee machine can reach 85 dB.
Properly designing or (re)fitting out premises
Limiting noise pollution begins with identifying it, by analyzing the company's activities, their distribution in situ, and their acoustic quality. It is then possible to allocate teams by type of activity, according to the noise level generated.
It is sometimes worth rethinking the layout of premises, with the help of an interior designer if necessary, in order to :
- create distinct work zones;
- install specific facilities for uses requiring a high degree of concentration ("phone box", outsourced mini-meeting room, etc.);
- enclosing the noisiest machines and equipment (printers, photocopiers) with formwork, sheet metal, etc.
Soundproof rooms efficiently
By room or space, soundproofing can be done on all dimensions.Carpeting reduces floor noise by 20 to 40 dB. If this is incompatible with the company's activity, PVC flooring or laminated chipboard are less effective, but recommended alternatives.
Soundproof sheets and panels can be applied to walls and ceilings. There's a wide choice of colors and designs that won't detract from the decor or user-friendliness of the space. There are also mobile, self-supporting partitions, perfectly suited to large open spaces.
Glass surfaces must not be forgotten: double-glazing is essential, as are fixed frames and carefully sealed closing systems. Roller shutters are also preferable to openwork casements.
Furniture and accessories not to be overlooked!
Interior design also plays its part in noise attenuation. Specialized brands are developing complete ranges of "anti-noise" furniture. In addition to foam-absorbing armchairs and sofas, there are now wrap-around desks, private areas (from 1 to 4 seats), acoustic storage units and noise-absorbing totems.
With their meticulous design, these elements are often offered in a wide range of colors; some can be customized with a logo or image. Their sound absorption capacity meets ISO 354 and 16487 standards.
At last, everyone can benefit from individual headphones or headphones at their workstation, a simple and effective solution for telephone calls, video conferences, etc.