The Anatomy of a 24/7 Control Room: What Most Designers Overlook

In the world of emergency response, uptime isn’t optional, it’s mission-critical. For 911 supervisors and public safety professionals, the control room is more than just a workspace. It’s a lifeline. Yet, many control room designs fail to account for the unique demands of 24/7 operations.

At Sustema, we’ve spent decades designing ergonomic, tech-integrated control room furniture that supports the people who support everyone else. Here’s what most designers miss, and how we solve for it.

1. Ergonomics Is Not a Luxury — It’s a Lifesaving Feature

911 dispatchers often sit for 8, 10, or even 12-hour shifts, managing life-and-death situations with unwavering focus. Poor posture, repetitive strain, and visual fatigue aren’t just health risks — they’re performance risks.

The benefits of ergonomic furniture in 24/7 control rooms include:

• Reduced musculoskeletal injuries: Adjustable sit-stand consoles, monitor arms, and urethan edging on worksurfaces help operators maintain neutral postures, reducing strain on the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

• Improved alertness: Ergonomic seating and adjustable lighting reduce fatigue, helping dispatchers stay sharp during overnight shifts.

• Faster response times: When everything is within reach and sightlines are optimized, operators can act faster, and more accurately , in critical moments.

Our approach: Every console we design is built around the operator. From height-adjustable surfaces to personalized lighting zones and anti-fatigue flooring, we engineer for endurance, not just aesthetics.

2. One Console, Multiple Operators: Why Adjustability is Non-Negotiable

In a 24/7 control room, a single workstation may be used by several different dispatchers across multiple shifts. Each operator brings their own height, posture, preferences, and physical needs, yet many control rooms still rely on static furniture that forces every user into the same setup.

That’s not just uncomfortable, it’s inefficient and potentially harmful.

The solution? Fully adjustable consoles that adapt to the operator, not the other way around.

Here’s why it matters:

• Faster, Safer Shift Transitions: When a dispatcher begins their shift, they shouldn’t have to waste time adjusting monitors, chairs, or reaching for tools. With programmable height presets and motorized sit-stand surfaces, each operator can instantly return the console to their ideal ergonomic position, ensuring a smooth, seamless handoff.

• Inclusive Design for All Body Types: Adjustable furniture ensures that every operator, regardless of height, build, or mobility, can work in a position that supports their health and performance. That’s not just good design. It’s good leadership.

Our solution: Every console we build is engineered for multi-user adaptability. From electric sit-stand surfaces to independently adjustable monitor arms and task lighting, we ensure that every operator, no matter their shift or stature, can work in comfort and control.

3. Environmental Control Is Not a Luxury — It’s a Necessity

Temperature, lighting, and noise levels all affect dispatcher performance. In a 24/7 setting, even minor discomfort can compound over time, leading to fatigue, irritability, and reduced focus.

What we recommend:

• Zoned lighting that adjusts to circadian rhythms and reduces eye strain

• Acoustic paneling to minimize ambient noise and improve concentration

• Climate-adaptive materials that stay comfortable across shifts and seasons

Our approach: We work with clients to design control rooms that support environmental personalization, giving each operator control over their immediate workspace. This not only improves comfort but also boosts morale and retention.

4. Maintenance Downtime? Not an Option.

In a 24/7 control room, uptime is everything, and that includes your technology infrastructure. Tangled cords, exposed wiring, and hard-to-reach components aren’t just unsightly, they’re a liability. Poor cable management can lead to overheating, accidental disconnections, and time-consuming maintenance that disrupts operations.

That’s why we’ve engineered our consoles with integrated cable management systems that prioritize both security and serviceability.

Here’s how our approach makes a difference:

• Integrated Electrical Raceways: Built directly into the console walls, these raceways keep power and data cables organized, protected, and out of sight, reducing clutter and minimizing the risk of accidental unplugging or damage. Also, different voltage cables can be kept separate to avoid electromagnetic interference.

• Retractable Monument Systems: Our monument systems provide centralized access to power and data ports, then retract neatly into the console when not in use. This keeps the work surface clean while power and data remain accessible.

• Under-Worksurface Power Bars: Mounted discreetly beneath the console surface, these power bars offer easy access for IT teams while keeping cords off the floor and out of the operator’s way. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in day-to-day usability.

• Lockable CPU Enclosures: Security is critical in public safety environments. Our lockable CPU compartments protect sensitive hardware from tampering or accidental disconnection, while still allowing for quick access during maintenance or upgrades.

5. The Human Factor: Designed for Real People, Not Just Specs

Too often, control room furniture is designed in a vacuum, without input from the people who use it every day. We believe that the best designs come from the field, not just the drawing board.

Our process includes:

• In-house manufacturing

• User interviews with 911 supervisors and dispatchers

• Design reviews and heavy duty materials

This human-centered approach ensures that every detail, from monitor placement to drawer height, is optimized for real-world use.

Let’s Design a Control Room That Works for You

Every control room has its own mission, challenges, and team dynamics. Your furniture should reflect that. Whether you are upgrading an existing dispatch center or planning a new facility, our team is ready to help you create a space that supports your operators, your technology, and your long-term goals.

With decades of experience in ergonomic design, integrated technology, and mission-critical environments, we deliver more than just furniture. We deliver confidence, comfort, and control.

📞 Ready to build a control room tailored to your needs? Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation or request a virtual walkthrough of our latest 24-hour-ready solutions.