SOUND CONDITIONING - BRINGING AN IMPROVED WORKING ATMOSPHERE TO OPEN PLAN OFFICES.

The high acoustic damping found in open-plan office design which is produced by screens, carpets, and absorbent ceilings, can create an atmosphere in which Staff feel somewhat isolated, and as a consequence, psychologically uncomfortable. Paradoxically, this acoustic damping is not very efficient at eliminating distractions caused by typewriters, conversations, and similar localized noise sources. A sound conditioning system is an attractive solution to these problems. Electronically generated and controlled background noise in the form of specially shaped noise is supplied to the office area via hidden loudspeakers. The properties of the specially shaped noise are such that it masks localized noise while eliminating feeling such as isolation and helps to create a better working atmosphere.