Quiet retreat spaces
Less noise in the office thanks to acoustic cabins
The phone rings, the printer is running at full speed, the ventilation system is making unpleasant noises, and co-workers are conversing in the hallway. The list of sources of noise in the office is long. In the modern work world, we are constantly exposed to many different stimuli. However, sources of noise cause stress over the long term, which is often a cause of muscle cramps and back pain.
Besides employee health and overall well-being, concentration and productivity suffer under the stress. This especially holds true for open-office concepts due to reduced privacy and sound insulation. Although they promote collaboration, they often lead to increased noise pollution as well.
Furthermore: Constant noise at the workplace can even disrupt sleep at night, which can also cause back pain. Therefore, it is important to ensure a healthy environment with adequate noise and sound protection both from the employee's and the employer’s standpoint.
Acoustic cabins promote employee health
The solution: Acoustic cabins offer employees noise-insulated retreat spaces. As a result, the employer reduces the noise stimuli, counteracts stress, and thereby promotes employee health.
Quiet retreat spaces can provide a pleasant work and relaxation environment mainly in open-plan offices and open-space areas. At the same time, they reduce the level of noise in spacious areas since video calls and small meetings take place in the cabin. This allows for peace, relaxation and trouble-free working – reducing stress levels.
Sound insulation is key
When acquiring an acoustic cabin, you should first ensure it has effective sound insulation. Make sure that it has a certificate from a recognised testing body. The materials used in the erectable retreat spaces are supposed to absorb the noise due to their structure and reduce the propagation of noise.
Ensure it has an ergonomic interior
It is also important to furnish the retreat spaces with back-friendly furniture to enable the employees to work pleasantly and healthily. As in many other aspects of life, the AGR seal of approval can serve as a guide for you. By promoting an ergonomic and moving posture, you can often prevent back pain.
Ventilation and lighting provide a breath of fresh air
The noise-reducing cabins should have good ventilation and adequate lighting. A fresh supply of air and adequate lighting conditions promote general employee welfare and productivity. Automatic control systems adjust the lighting and ventilation to the user needs.
Electronics in the room
Furthermore, you should also take into account power supply when planning retreat spaces to allow employees to use electronic devices such as laptops, tablets or smartphones. This ensures that employees can continue their work without limitations.
Additional useful tools: Tips that make work even more pleasant
• An indicator of room occupancy, e.g., using coloured lighting.
• Additional manual lighting and ventilation control for customisation.
• Lighting that reproduces natural daylight.
• Various cabin sizes and configurations for various needs: For instance, different areas can be used for phone calls, video calls, concentrated work, or small meetings.
Important:
Make sure that all the safety requirements are met.
Checklist
Minimum requirements:
- Ensure general product safety
- Proof of effective noise insulation
- Ergonomic interior
- Adequate ventilation and lighting
- Automatic control for lighting and ventilation
- Adequate power supply for the room
Also useful:
- Indicator of room occupancy
- Switch to manually control lighting and ventilation
- Daylight quality
- Various room sizes and different configurations
Products in this sector with the AGR seal of approval
Sedus
Manufacturer
Sedus Stoll AG
Christof-Stoll-Str. 1
79804 Dogern
GERMANY
Phone +49 7751/84 300
Fax +49 7751/84 61 300
www.sedus.com