Is your office too loud?

Unwanted noise in the work place is a common problem, especially in open plan offices. Poor acoustics can affect concentration, learning and memory.  But there are solutions, says Roger Evertsson, head purchaser at AJ Products.

The sounds that distract us from our work are, of course, different from workplace to workplace but the most common problems are the sounds that we ourselves make: coughing, footsteps, phone calls and idle chatter. Whatever the distraction. the fact is that these noises are difficult to block out; our brains are wired to listen to what’s going on around us.

Soft materials will muffle noise

Soft and spongy materials absorb and muffle sound whilst hard, flat-surfaced materials cause sound to echo off the walls thus amplifying even the smallest of noises. The use of acoustic panels along with floor and desk screens can make a big difference to the acoustics in your room by preventing the sound from reverberating. Soft furnishings such as sofas, curtains and carpets can aslo have a significant impact. Remember the bigger and more open the space, the louder it will be so it's smart to break your open office space into smaller areas using floor screens to create "rooms within a room".

It helps to be courteous

In addition to planning the environment properly, it is important to think about what efforts we can make as individuals to help keep the noise levels down. Lowering the ringtone on your phone or simply putting it on silent is just one way!