Ignoring acoustics in the office: why is it a bad idea?
Noise is everywhere, on the street and in the workplace. A recognised public health issue, noise pollution has a significant impact on concentration, well-being, and overall health. Offices, and particularly open plan environments, are no exception. Ignoring acoustics in the workplace is not a great idea.
Noise and acoustics in the office
Although noise levels in offices rarely exceed 50 dB, these constant background disturbances are a major source of fatigue, stress, and discomfort, especially in open plan offices. Common sources of noise include:
- Conversations between colleagues
- Photocopiers and office equipment
- Phone calls and notification tones
- Keyboard noise
- Doors, machinery, and building services
Over time, this continuous exposure can have a cumulative effect on employee comfort and performance.
Acoustic standards for open plan offices in the UK
In the UK, acoustic comfort in offices is addressed through recognised standards and guidance, including BS EN ISO 22955, Acoustics – Acoustic quality of open-plan office spaces. This standard provides technical recommendations for achieving an acceptable level of acoustic quality, focusing on speech intelligibility, noise control, and user comfort.
In addition, organisations such as the British Council for Offices and the Health and Safety Executive highlight the importance of managing noise as part of a healthy working environment.
Key arguments to highlight to your clients
The impact of noise on employee health
Even at relatively low levels, noise contributes to fatigue, stress, and mental overload. Long term exposure to poor acoustic conditions can negatively affect employees’ physical and psychological health, often in ways that are underestimated or overlooked.
Less noise means improved productivity
From a business perspective, noise is a significant barrier to concentration. Numerous workplace studies show that employees working in noisy environments report reduced focus and efficiency, particularly when tasks require sustained attention or confidentiality.
Acoustic comfort enhances wellbeing at work
Beyond health and productivity, effective acoustic treatment significantly improves overall comfort and wellbeing. A quieter, more controlled sound environment contributes to a calmer atmosphere, encourages collaboration, and supports employee retention by creating a more pleasant place to work.
How do you find the right solution for your client?
Understanding client expectations
There are many ways to improve acoustic comfort in offices, but the most appropriate solution depends on several key factors:
- The client’s needs and priorities
- The type and source of noise
- The objectives, whether to absorb, reduce, mask, or define spaces
Proposing solutions clients may not have considered
Acoustic ceiling panels, acoustic curtains, wall panels, and other acoustic solutions all offer different performance levels and visual outcomes. Each solution brings its own benefits, both technically and aesthetically.
Surprising clients with creative and distinctive acoustic solutions can add real value to a project and differentiate your approach.
Adapting solutions to the nature of the noise
There is no single solution to office noise. Simply installing acoustic panels is rarely sufficient. Each environment presents unique challenges, making an acoustic study essential to determine the most effective approach.
The ideal solution is always based on a combination of technical criteria, such as acoustic calculations and on-site measurements, and aesthetic considerations, including colours, shapes, materials, and integration with the overall workspace design.
What added value do you bring to your projects? Is your approach to workplace design aligned with acoustic performance requirements?
Want to explore acoustic solutions that are tailored to your next design project? Take a look at our full range of acoustic solutions here or give us a call on +44 (0)20 3889 9888, email us at hello@allsfar.com or fill in our contact form on our website here.
