A construction site near your office can be a source of constant annoyance. The noise can be unbearable. From hammering and drilling to the buzzing of saws, particularly if you work in a creative or knowledge-based profession that requires a quiet workspace.
Noise pollution can increase stress, decrease productivity, and impact overall satisfaction and well-being in the workplace.
Creating a quiet workspace should be a top priority for both employers and employees. Here are 10 solutions for employers to reduce construction noise in the office.
Sound Barrier Fence
Sound barrier fences aim to reduce noise pollution by absorbing or reflecting sound waves using materials like wood, concrete, or metal. They are commonly employed in residential areas to alleviate noise from highways, airports, or other sources.
Double-Glazing Windows
Double-glazing windows can reduce noise pollution from outside sources. The double-pane application serves as an extra layer of insulation that helps absorb sound and keep it out of your workspace.
Acoustic Wall Panels & Ceiling Tiles
Acoustic wall panels and ceiling tiles effectively reduce sound in your office. The absorbent material helps absorb noise and reflects it away from your workspace.
Rugs & Carpeting
Rugs and carpeting muffle noise in the workplace. By adding a layer of material between you and the floor, you can help reduce overall sound levels.
Soundproofing Curtains & Blinds
Soundproofing curtains reduce noise pollution in the office. These heavy-duty curtains provide an extra layer of insulation that helps block out unwanted noise. Noise-reducing blinds are another excellent way to help keep sound from entering or leaving the office space. They provide an additional layer of protection against outside noise, allowing for more comfortable conversations in the office. The curtains and blinds also help reduce the amount of light entering the office, providing a comfortable working environment.
White Noise Machines
White noise machines generate soothing ambient sound to cover up distracting noises. While often used to sleep better in a noisy bedroom, they can be used in cacophonous offices, too. With these machines, you can customize your sound preferences so that it is easier to focus on work instead of being distracted by outside noise. These machines help create a more peaceful atmosphere and a more focused work environment where it is easier to concentrate and be productive.
Soundproof Paint & Acoustic Foam Panels
Soundproof paint, which uses silica aerogel, is yet one more way to reduce noise pollution in the workplace. By applying a layer of soundproof paint, sound waves can be blocked.
Foam Panels
Foam panels placed on walls and ceilings are another way of blocking sound waves more effectively. This solution will allow you to talk without distractions from outside noise.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones are great for blocking out distracting noises in the office. They also provide a great way to listen to music without disrupting your colleagues or fellow office workers. With them, you can do more than just cancel outside noises. You can also enjoy your music without having to worry about bothering anyone.
Soundproofing Materials
Soundproofing materials such as dampening panels can be used to reduce the amount of sound that travels through walls in office spaces. This will provide a quieter environment for everyone in the office.
Currently, Eco-Friendly Construction Does Not Address Noise Pollution
Although many green construction building projects have adopted a wide range of eco-friendly products, these focus on energy and resource conservation or eliminating toxic products. Since reducing noise pollution in surrounding offices is necessary, employers must invest in soundproofing materials, install acoustic insulation, use noise-canceling headphones, encourage employees to use headsets, or try other noise-reducing options.
