Managing noise in the workplace: office sound levels explained

A social, noisy office can be a sign of a strong team culture, but too much noise can hurt productivity and performance, causing stress and disruption. While it’s important to have spaces to collaborate and communicate, office staff also need somewhere quiet to focus. 

Office sound levels explained

Offices aren’t as loud as building sites or factories, but they can generate a lot of noise, with ringing phones, talking team members and beeping machinery. Even air conditioning units can add to the din, making it difficult for people to concentrate.

How noisy are the most common office noises? Here’s a snapshot of the noises you often hear in an office environment:

• 35-45 db(A) — the noise from an air conditioning or ventilation system.
• 40 db(A) — quiet radio music.
• 50 db(A) — the sound of a laser printer.
• 70 db(A) —  the sound level of a loud conversation.

Acceptable noise levels

The acceptable level of office noise depends on the task you are trying to perform. Here are some guidelines on the ideal noise level for different office tasks:

• High levels of concentration — up to 40 db(A)
• Communication with customers, intellectual work — up to 45 db (A)
• Maximum office sound level — 55 db (A)

Anything above 55 decibels is considered too loud for an office worker to perform their task to the best of their ability.

The impact of office sound levels

Loud office environments can have auditory effects, impacting our hearing, as well as extra-aural effects, the range of negative impacts on the rest of the body. Noise can also cause stress, make it more difficult for staff to complete tasks.

Too much noise means staff are less able to communicate and more likely to make mistakes. Noise pollution has even been linked to poor sleep, increased levels of stress hormones, and a higher risk of cardiovascular and digestive diseases.

How your workplace can reduce unwanted noise

It’s impossible to eradicate noise from a thriving workplace, and you wouldn’t want your staff to sit in silence all day. So, what are the best options to keep everyone happy, keep noise to a minimum and provide quiet spaces?

Office designs to minimise noise

Interior design touches can minimise the impact of noise. Sound-absorbing surfaces like carpets and acoustic partitions can reduce noise in an office, while acoustic panels mounted on walls can also make a difference.

Furniture can also help with soundproofing—  choose moveable furniture with glides or wheels to reduce reverberation and echo as chairs and tables are moved. Sound-absorbing curtains can also block out and reduce sound.

Other top tips include moving loud machinery into a side room, establishing rules for conduct for employees, and agreeing to quiet periods in the office.

Soundproof office pods

Beyond interior design touches, office pods are another great way to carve out quiet spaces for focus and concentration. Soundproof pods take up minimal space and provide staff with a comfortable place to perform their tasks in peace.