5 Tips to Reduce Workplace Noise and Create a More Productive Environment

Noise in the workplace can be incredibly distracting and distractions lead to a decrease in productivity. It is important to create a work environment that is both efficient and comfortable for employees. At Gateway, we promote these five simple tips to reduce workplace noise and create a more productive environment. These tips are easy to implement and will help improve the quality of your workspace. Read on to learn how you can reduce workplace noise and create a better, more productive, more inclusive working environment. 

1. Implement Privacy Spaces 

privacy spaces

One of the most effective ways to reduce noise in the workplace is to implement privacy spaces. Privacy spaces can be created through the use of architectural walls and paneling to reduce sound traveling between workspaces. Dedicated rooms for printers, copiers, and other loud machinery are also a great way to contain sound and provide a more peaceful working environment.  

Privacy spaces also provide employees with a place to focus on their work without distraction. Quiet meeting rooms and private offices allow for collaboration and brainstorming sessions in peace, without having to compete with the rest of the office for attention. Additionally, these spaces provide the opportunity for remote work or telecommuting when needed, as well as providing a quiet space for employees to take breaks or complete individual tasks.  

Privacy spaces allow for both focused collaboration and individual work, creating an environment that is conducive to productivity and creativity. By implementing privacy spaces in your office, you can significantly reduce the amount of noise in your workplace and create a more productive environment. 

2. Encourage the Use of Headphones 

headphones help cancel out workplace noise

Headphones are a great way to help individuals focus in a busy workplace. By wearing headphones, people can filter out any distracting noise and remain productive. Not only that, but they can also prevent others from being distracted. For example, if an employee is participating in an online training session or on a phone call, using headphones ensures that the meeting sounds will not distract others in the office. 

Headphones can also be helpful during meetings. If there are multiple voices or conversations going on at once, wearing headphones will help drown out the background noise and allow everyone to focus on what’s being discussed. This can lead to a more productive meeting and better outcomes. 

Lastly, headphones can be useful for newer employees who are just learning the ropes. Listening to audio tutorials with headphones will ensure that their training does not affect others in the office. This can be especially helpful in a busy office where other activities might be going on. 

3. Invest in Sound-Absorbent Materials 

sound absorbent materials

One of the best ways to reduce workplace noise is to invest in sound-absorbing materials. This can involve creating paneling between workspaces, whether fabric, glass, or otherwise. Sound-absorbent paneling on ceilings can reduce echoes, while using fabric furniture and carpeting can help reduce ambient office noise.  

These measures not only reduce noise but also create a more aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. You can create dedicated touchdown spaces for meetings and conversations, giving employees the chance to collaborate in a quiet and peaceful environment. This way, employees can focus more easily and be more productive. Furthermore, when the office is quieter, it is more conducive for creative thinking and problem-solving.  

Sound-absorbing materials are a cost-effective solution for reducing workplace noise. Not only do they create a more peaceful workspace, but they can also last for years with proper maintenance and care. Investing in sound-absorbing materials is an investment in the overall productivity of your office. 

4. Schedule Quiet Time 

reduce noise and productivity will improve

One way to potentially cut down on office noise is by scheduling quiet time for employees. It may sound silly but has been proven to be effective in many workplace environments. This could involve having times where everyone is asked to turn off their cell phones, put away any noisy equipment, refrain from scheduling meetings, and avoid using loud machines like copiers and printers. It is important to ensure that the entire team understands why you are asking them to observe these quiet times and be respectful of the environment.  

During quiet time, you may want to consider setting up some low-level background white noise. Additionally, you may want to consider having a designated “no-talking zone” in the office to provide those who need more peace and quiet with the extra solitude they need. 

5. Promote Awareness 

Noise control is everyone’s responsibility, and if everyone pitches in it can be easier to maintain a comfortable and distraction-free work atmosphere. Encourage your employees to be mindful of their surroundings and respect others who may need a quiet environment in which to concentrate. 

You can also help by providing clear policies about acceptable noise levels and making sure everyone is aware of them. It’s important that these rules are enforced, otherwise they won’t make a difference. Additionally, you should emphasize the importance of politeness, respect, and courtesy when communicating with one another. 

Finally, you should ensure that your office has enough breakrooms and areas where people can take a break and have conversations without disturbing others. Providing areas where people can go to relax, chat, or simply take a break away from their desks can help keep the noise level down throughout the day. 

How Gateway Can Help 

gateway furniture can help you reduce workplace noise

Gateway has all the materials you need to create comfortable, productive workplaces with quiet zones. From acoustic ceiling tiles, architectural walls, and sound absorbent office furniture and flooring materials, Gateway can help you create the perfect environment for your business. By promoting awareness and encouraging respect for others, creating quiet times, investing in soundproofing measures, encouraging headphone usage, and implementing privacy spaces, you can create an environment where everyone can focus on their work without being distracted by ambient office noise.  

How to Create an Ergonomic Workplace with the Right Office Furniture

When it comes to creating a productive, inviting, and comfortable workplace, ergonomics should be at the top of your list. Ergonomics focuses on optimizing a workplace environment to reduce fatigue, discomfort, and injury. It’s the study of how to make people’s work environment as comfortable, efficient, safe, and healthy as possible. To achieve this, selecting the right office furniture is essential.  

The Benefits of an Ergonomic Workplace 

Lady smiling while working in ergonomic workstation

Emphasis should always be placed on ergonomics when designing a workplace. A workspace design that prioritizes ergonomics not only improves worker satisfaction and productivity, but also minimizes injuries and decreases fatigue. It shows both customers and employees that you care about their well-being and want to create a productive and healthy workplace. A well-designed workplace makes it easy to move around, reach tools and equipment, and maintain good posture. Here are some of the main benefits of investing in ergonomic workplace design:  

Improved Comfort & Safety 

Ergonomic workplace design helps reduce physical strain, allowing you to work smarter rather than harder. Ergonomic furniture and accessories such as height-adjustable chairs and sit-stand desks, footrests, and wrist supports provide extra comfort and support. By reducing physical strain, you are able to stay productive without putting your health at risk. 

Increased Productivity & Focus 

When you’re comfortable in your workspace, you’re more likely to stay focused on the task at hand. An ergonomic workplace design allows for better posture, which helps reduce distractions and increase concentration. Ergonomic design also encourages collaboration and communication, as it provides an environment that is conducive to idea sharing and teamwork. 

Reduced Risk of Injury 

If you’re working in an uncomfortable environment for long periods of time, you’re more likely to suffer from repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. An ergonomic workplace design helps to reduce strain on your muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injury. In addition, it ensures that any equipment you use is easily accessible, so that you don’t have to stretch or strain to reach it. Ergonomic furniture also helps you stay compliant with OSHA guidelines.  

What Office Furniture is Best for an Ergonomic Workplace? 

Person placing laptop on laptop stand

Wondering where to start when it comes to incorporating ergonomic workplace furniture? Here are some of the top office furniture pieces that should be incorporated into any ergonomic workplace design: 

Laptop Stands 

Working with a laptop can cause neck and back strain, but laptop stands can help alleviate this problem. Laptop stands can be adjusted to any height so that your screen is always at eye level. This will reduce neck strain and help keep your posture correct.  

Adjustable Seating 

Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can lead to muscle fatigue and poor posture. An adjustable chair or stool will give you the flexibility to move around, ensuring that your body is supported in all directions. 

Footrests 

Keeping your feet flat on the floor helps you maintain good posture, but it isn’t always possible to do this. Footrests provide an easy solution by allowing you to adjust the height of your feet and keep them at a comfortable level. 

Sit-Stand Desks 

Sit-stand desks are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a great way to stay active while you work. These desks are adjustable so you can switch from sitting to standing whenever you need to. 

Lumbar Support 

Back pain is one of the most common workplace injuries. Investing in lumbar support cushions or chairs can help reduce strain on your lower back, improving both your posture and comfort. 

Anti-Fatigue Mats 

When standing for long periods of time, having a cushioned anti-fatigue mat will not only improve your posture, but also increase blood circulation.  

How to Set Up an Ergonomic Workspace 

Lady using adjustable desk standing while working

In the ideal workplace design, employees should be able to adjust their workstations to meet their specific needs. For example, adjustable desks allow users to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day. Anti-fatigue mats are great for those who need to stand for long periods of time, like hotel clerks, food service workers, cashiers, and more, as they provide extra cushioning to reduce strain on joints. Height-adjustable chairs and stools also enable users to move their seat up and down depending on either their height or preference. And for those who must use a mouse or keyboard for long hours, wrist rests for a mouse or keyboard are invaluable for reducing strain and improving circulation. 

Additional Tips for an Ergonomic Workplace 

Good posture is essential for all workplace employees. Maintaining good posture reduces strain on the body, prevents long-term musculoskeletal injuries, and improves mental focus. To maintain good posture at work, be sure to sit with your back straight and feet flat on the floor or on a footrest. If you’re standing, keep your feet shoulder-width apart with your shoulders relaxed and your spine aligned.  

There are several products available that can help you maintain good posture in the workplace. Desk risers are great tools for adjusting your desk to the right height, so you don’t have to stoop or lean forward to type. Additional products you can use for ergonomic support include ergonomic keyboards, adjustable monitor arms, and wrist rests. Ergonomic keyboards encourage good posture by keeping your wrists in a neutral position. Adjustable monitor arms can help place your screen at the correct distance from your eyes and relieve any strain. Wrist rests can also be used to support your wrists while typing or using a mouse.  

Get in With Gateway 

Gateway delivery truck

These are just a few ways you can make sure you’re creating an ergonomic workplace design and staying comfortable throughout the workday. Remember, any changes you make to your workspace should feel natural and comfortable so you can stay productive and free of pain and fatigue. Gateway Furniture in South Texas offers a great selection of ergonomic furniture to help you create a workplace design that feels comfortable and supportive. With their wide range of office chairs, desks, and more, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your needs. They also offer custom design solutions so you can create a workspace that works best for you. With Gateway, you’ll get the support and comfort you need while working in your office.