Sounds can easily become distractions in any working environment and sound that you have no control over can be distracting, stressful, and detrimental to maximum productivity. Noise pollution in offices in Kenya is common, especially in common open office floor plans. Because of the interruption noise can cause, companies are employing soundproofing methods in their offices. Soundproofing is vital in offices and conference rooms where concentration is key. Deciding on how to soundproof the office space should be at the top of the list when designing the workplace as it can help reduce sound distractions and improve the team’s productivity. In addition to protecting the office from noise pollution, office soundproofing in Kenya can also help reduce the leakage of information through sound to other parts of the office, hence protecting your privacy.
Methods of office soundproofing in Kenya
There are a number of soundproofing methods in Kenya and in this guide, we have listed a number of the most common methods used.
1. Use soundproofing materials
One of the most efficient ways to soundproof an office space is to build it with soundproof materials from the beginning. Consider the use of noise-reducing materials like acoustic board overlay in floors and walls and additional ceiling insulation. By building floors, ceilings, and walls deliberately to reduce sound, you can reduce the amount of additional soundproofing you need to add later down the line.
2. Use acoustic ceiling tiles
Acoustic ceiling tiles help to absorb sound throughout a space. They can be installed throughout the entire room or in a more targeted area where most noise occurs. Acoustic ceiling tiles can be made from perforated wood, metal, and foam among other materials, and can be customized to your design specifications.
3. Use soundproof paint
Soundproof paint helps absorb sound by creating a thick layer or a wall surface. latex paint contains fillers called ceramic microspheres which are more uniform than fillers in regular paint making it have higher insulative properties and serve as noise canceling measure for an office space.
4. Incorporate plants into the office
Incorporating indoor plants is a great way to enhance sound absorption. the plants can be closely spaced to create a wall that can absorb sound, therefore, reducing the amount of noise in the office space.
5. Install carpet flooring
Having a carpeted floor in the office, especially in busy areas like corridors or hallways is a great technique for reducing noise in the workplace. The carpet will absorb footstep noises as well as other indirect noises such as ringing phones and conversations. A carpet will also complement other noise reduction systems.
6. Use acoustic panels
Just like acoustic ceilings, acoustic panels absorb sound. They can be applied on walls to reduce reverb and echoes. The acoustic panels can be small, large, colorful, neutral hard, or soft depending on your preferred aesthetics.
7. Use cubicles
Using cubicles or desk dividers is a great way to reduce visual
distraction and help create the illusion of privacy in a large open space.in addition to physical privacy cubicles can also dampen and reduce ambient noise and sound pollution which could create distractions for your staff.
Conclusion
Office noise can have detrimental effects on the health and well-being of employees, designing an office space that reduces office noise by employing the above office soundproofing methods in kenya will help to create a more productive and healthier work environment.
