Welfare &Design
Noise Workplaces are often perceived as either too noisy or too quiet, but significant performance improvements have been reported when acoustic conditions have been optimised. In an open-plan office, the acoustic qualities of panels, ceilings, floors and walls must be controlled if speech privacy is to be maintained, and the overall noise level should be compatible with the intended use of the space.
Noise levels in open-plan spaces can be reduced by adding absorbent matting to the wall corners/ceiling joints, thereby reducing sound reflection by absorption.
Temperature Decreases in productivity of up to 30% have been found in
offices experiencing extreme temperature conditions. In the CABE/BCO study, 23.5°C was reported as the preferred temperature, but as individuals often prefer spaces warmer or cooler than this level, it is worth installing heating and air conditioning to regulate the office temperature during all seasons.
Lighting Good lighting design and adequate daylight have been linked
to a 15% reduction in absenteeism and a big factor in effective office lighting design is control systems. Daylight harvesting systems continually read the levels of daylight and turn off or dim the lights accordingly, whilst motion detectors automatically turn lights on and off depending upon activity in the space, thus reducing costs for building managers.
By employing a lighting controls system you can also deliver energy saving and cost reductions benefits too.
Air Quality Another, often overlooked, factor to consider is air quality. In
the CABE/BCO study, there is a decrease in reported symptoms attributed to ‘sick building syndrome’ as a result of the improved delivery of fresh air. So when it comes to office redesign or refurbishment, it’s important to make sure air supply vents and return grilles are not blocked by furniture or equipment.
Sustainability Using sustainable materials, making environmentally conscious choices and employing energy saving technologies is now a requirement of office design. If you plan your office refurbishment carefully, you can produce less heat and consume less power than traditional workplaces, whilst also supporting employees more effectively.
For example, specifying energy efficient compact fluorescent lamps during refurbishment provides less heat output, no flicker or hum, an extended lamp life and the possibility of dimming. High frequency lighting will usually have a payback period of less than 12 months, and will reduce your energy
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bills dramatically, as well as create a more natural lighting environment for staff.
environments can affect employee performance, whereas good office design can have a direct and positive impact on employees. In the face of the current economic climate and the rapidly changing office environment, the implications of linking good office design with better business performance are incredibly profound.
redesign, refurbishment or fit-out, so think carefully about selecting the right commercial interiors contractor. Martek Contracts has had an array of experience in the office fit-out sector, with an extensive portfolio that includes refurbishments and redesigns.
Excellent credentials are vital when undertaking an office In summary, research suggests that unfavorable work
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