At OBEX Panel Extenders, we place a lot of emphasis on workplace acoustics. Our products are designed to help employers and workers manage noise levels easily and cost effectively. But there are actually several different components of overall acoustic management. Goldenharvest-acoustic.com has a highly informative educational resource that you should definitely take time to read if you’re planning a new or renovated office space. It explores the “ABCs” of keeping the volume of workplace chatter under control. Here’s a quick look at what you can learn:

A is for Absorb

Ceiling tiles and acoustic panels on cubicles both play a role in absorbing sound. The Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating of a material refers to its ability to absorb noise. A high NRC rating means the sound is absorbed effectively by the filler in the panel so it doesn’t bounce back into the cube and annoy the user. A very absorbent panel system can help a workplace seem quieter.

B is for Block

This is the STC or Sound Transmission Class rating. Cubicle panels can be used for blocking sound as well as absorbing it. The noise produced within a cubicle basically bounces back into the cubicle rather than being transmitted to the neighboring cube. That’s a factor in limiting unintentional eavesdropping. However, it only works as intended with cubicle panels that reach above head height. Otherwise, you’re just talking over the top of the cube (you can see how panel extenders can help prevent this!)

C is for Cover Up

This includes various types of sound masking technology. It can be white noise or other sounds that help take the edge off of noises that would otherwise be distracting. An HVAC system might do the trick by simply making a whooshing sound that blurs the clicking of keyboards. Or, you might need a more sophisticated electronic system to garble the sound of conversations and ensure privacy. That’s the area of Golden Harvest Architectural Acoustics’ expertise. They provide sound masking Qt Quiet technology™ that targets the range of the human voice instead of simply raising the noise level across all spectrums.

If you get the ABCs right, your employees can enjoy an unprecedented level of comfort and concentration in the workplace!