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Capturing the Excitement: Highlights from the 2023 APCO Conference! And just like that, August bids us farewell along with the exhilarating 2023 APCO conference that took place in Nashville, Tennessee from August 6th to 9th. What a ride it has been! Did you know that this year's conference broke the record for attendance with a turnout of over 5,000 attendees, surpassing a decade-old record? Well, now you do. This gathering wasn't just about numbers; it was about creating genuine connections with decision-makers in the industry and meeting the remarkable people who always answer the call, and are the first, first responders. The halls were alive with the energy of lively discussions, as professionals and enthusiasts delved into the heart of what drives our industry forward. We took 2 consoles to the conference, to showcase our expertise in design, but also so that people could see with their own eyes that our consoles don't only look aesthetically pleasing, but they are also built to last. Below, you can see our consoles. The first one is a linear console with a slat wall to help create a clutter-free workspace, and the second console is in a cockpit configuration. Both of them with superb cable management and height-adjustable capabilities. But it wasn't just about new acquaintances; we also had a chance to meet with familiar faces. Our existing clients stopped by our booth and we had a chance to catch up in the middle of all the excitement. They were pretty happy to be receiving their upcoming orders soon. It's moments like these that fuel our passion and remind us why we do what we do. Which is to help organizations in improving functionality, design, and technology in critical environments. We also got the chance to catch up with our colleagues throughout the industry. We also stopped by our friends' booth from Matrox, which featured one of our control consoles integrating their cutting-edge technology for mission controls. A note on Labour Day. Now that the summer is ending, and the school year is beginning, we glide into September and in observance of Labour Day celebrations, we'll be closed on Monday, September 4th, giving our hardworking team a chance to recharge. We'll be back to full throttle on Tuesday, ready to embrace the opportunities the new month brings. And, to start planning for 2024. In the meantime, we're working diligently to compile the visual story of our time at the APCO conference. The images captured tell tales of inspiration, camaraderie, and a shared vision for a thriving future. Stay tuned to our channels as we unveil these snapshots that encapsulate the essence of the event.

When working with height-adjustable consoles, Linak actuators have more than 90 error codes that can show up on the digital display of your desk panel. This height adjustment troubleshooting guide will help you to spot and fix issues with Linak actuators. The first steps in fixing the problem are to go over the standard troubleshooting procedures. To that end, you must keep in mind all the components of a height-adjustable control console, as described below. Desk leg (DL) – The lifting columns, typically with powder-coated steel profiles, are responsible for lifting the working load of the application. Control box (CBD6S) – Both the computer and power supply of the system. Desk panel (DP) – The user interface. Depending on the model, it is used to activate the application, set memory positions, display the height, display error codes, connect to mobile apps, and give reminders to the user. Motor cable – Transmits low voltage power (18-39 VDC) from the control box to the desk legs, and also transmits PIEZO signals when available from the desk leg. Mains cable – Transmits high voltage power (120 VAC in US and Canada) to the control box. Standard troubleshooting procedures for Linak actuators in height-adjustable control consoles P1 – Initialize the control box (“reset”) STEP 1. Hold the Down button on the desk panel to ensure the desk is retracted to its lower limit (whether it’s the fully retracted hard stop, or a configured lower limit). STEP 2. Briefly release Down. STEP 3. Press and hold Down for 5 seconds, wait until all desk movement has stopped, then release. If initialization is successful, you should see a slight up/down “handshake” movement of the desk legs. If you have a desk panel with a display, you should also see E01 during this part of the procedure. P2 – Check all cable connections STEP 1. Mains cable, connected to both the control box and power outlet. STEP 2. All motor cables are connected to both the control box and the desk leg. Assuming a standard control box configuration, these must be connected in channels 1 and 2, or channels 1, 2, and 3 for a 3-leg table. They can’t be connected in channels 1 and 3 or 2 and 3 unless there is a configuration on the control box specifying this arrangement. STEP 3. Desk panel cable, connected to the control box in either port A1 or A2 (doesn’t matter which). P3 – Check for obstructions STEP 1. Check under, above, and on the sides of the desk for any obstructions that could prevent movement in either direction. The next two procedures (P4 and P5) are for a two-leg desk system. The same concepts can be used for a three-leg system using Channel 3 and so forth. P4 – Check for faulty component(s) WITH error codes (digital display on Desk Panel, or on app via Bluetooth) P5 – Check for faulty components WITHOUT error codes (no digital display on Desk Panel, no Bluetooth) What is the Control Box Thinking? There are many clever procedures, checks, and measurements performed in the control box. Here is a brief description of what the control box is trying to accomplish while it is activating an application: • Safe activation of the application - Parallel, even movement of all desk legs in the application is critical. The control box does not directly know the position of each desk leg. Instead, the position of each leg is constantly calculated via Hall pulses from each motor. The legs on a single reference are not allowed to be more than +/- 5 Hall pulses out of sync. For a standard DL, this amounts to +/- 0.55 mm. Motor cable disconnections are also detected as errors. - If PIEZO technology is present in the desk leg, the control box monitors for PIEZO “collision” signals from each channel. When a PIEZO signal is sensed, movement is immediately stopped and, if there is room, the system is run in the opposite direction a small distance. - Anytime the control sees an incomplete signal, or more than one signal (multiple keys pressed, multiple desk panels activated at the same time), an error is determined and no movement is allowed at that moment. This is to prevent an action or movement that is not intended by the user. • Protection from equipment damage - Internal temperature of the control box is monitored. - Maximum current draw for each motor channel, as well as the system as a whole, is measured. When the current exceeds an allowable limit, an error is presented. Error codes in Linak actuators and how to fix them How to initialize your height-adjustable control console If you want to elevate your control room with specialized furniture, contact us and our team of specialists and industrial designers will help you create a workspace that adapts to your needs and specific requirements.

Here is a list of common problems with control consoles These are some common problems that can be easily taken care of by control console operators. Our consoles are comprised of multiple components, and it is important to not neglect any aspect of their proper maintenance and operation. Verify the components that present common problems with control consoles: Height adjustable worksurfaces Monitors & monitor arms Keypad control Steel panels Monument system Cable management chains Heavy duty actuators CPU storage cabinet Personal storage cabinet Rackmount system If the control console is out of level. Make sure to use the leveling glides underneath the consoles to ensure the worksurface is properly leveled. If height adjustment in the control console doesn’t work. Check connections to the command box, located below the work surface. Unplug and plug back every connection. If the actuators are still not functioning properly, perform a reset by following these instructions. To fix cable management on control consoles. Make sure all cables are long enough to run the entire console by opening the CPU drawers and setting the surfaces at their maximum height. Otherwise, cables will break and damage the equipment. Make sure all cables run along the substructure of the console and pass through the dedicated grommet hole. This will help you to keep a clutter-free workspace and minimize the risk of accidents. For more details on cable management read this article. To minimize the risk of accidents and damage to the control consoles. Always place your tools and equipment on top of the work surface, never under the worksurface or on the CPU storing cabinets. Otherwise, you risk damaging the consoles and the equipment. Make sure all objects on the worksurface are stable or fixed to the console, this will minimize the risks of damaging the equipment and of injuries caused by falling objects. To clean the control console. When cleaning the work surface, the steel panels, and any metal pieces with non-abrasive cleaning products or with soapy water. For instructions on disinfecting our products consult this article. Use the monument system to connect and charge electronic devices that are not fixed to the console. When not in use, push the monument down until you hear a click. Press again to open. Make sure to separate data and power cables by running each type of cable through the dedicated electrical railways. The steel panel located at the back of the console can be lifted to access the electrical raceways. The image below shows power running through the orange raceway and data cables running through the green one. For further support, submit a service request with the following form.

Ergonomics can be defined as the study of people in their working environment. More specifically, an ergonomist designs or modifies the work to fit the worker, not the other way around - EHS Ergonomics in the Control Room The exponential rise of technology has brought many advantages and efficiencies inside the control room. However, with operators often using multiple screens for extended periods of time, fatigue and muscle strain can cause lower productivity and decreased work satisfaction. At Sustema, we are committed to integrate the latest ergonomic standards into the design and manufacturing of our consoles. Risk Factors One of the main risk factors in 24/7 work environments are users spending extended periods of time working in static positions. This includes their sitting position, neck, back, and hand postures. The causes include: Awkward postures: Maintaining an awkward, unsupported, or fixed posture such as bending, reaching, or twisting for prolonged periods of time. Excessive repetitions: Doing the same motions over and over again. Excessive force: Physical exertion or pressure on any part of the body while lifting, pushing, pulling, or gripping a tool. Contact Stress: Pressure by tools, edges, or hard surfaces on soft tissues of the body. The palms and elbows are often at high risk. ( Source ) Advantages of Ergonomic Work Environments Integrating ergonomic features in the control room work environment can benefit both employees and employers which is why Sustema control room consoles are designed to allow users to move and change posture throughout the day to maximize productivity and minimize fatigue. Advantages of an effective ergonomic design include ( Source ): Reduced discomfort Avoids injuries Increases job satisfaction Enhances productivity Ergonomic Console Design Reach Zone: Reach zone refers to the work surface area in which the frequently used items can be reached easily. A console that is designed ergonomically will allow users to do so by simply extending the arm across the surface and avoiding them to have to stand up or stretch out. The primary zone is where most of the work is performed ranges up to 14 to 15.5 inches for both females and males. The secondary zone  goes up to 23.5 to 26.5 inches for females and males when fully extending the arm. The secondary zone should be the maximum work area to abide by ergonomic standards. Tools or accessories found after the secondary zone also called the “non-working area” should not be used in daily tasks.  Leg Clearance: Ergonomic consoles should allow users to stretch their legs and have enough knee clearance. In order to adhere to ergonomic standards, the depth under the desk should be more or equal to 24 inches.  Knee Clearance: One main advantage of height-adjustable consoles is their ability to adjust to each user to provide them with the most conformable work position either seated or standing. For standing desks, the desk height which can be used to assess if there is enough knee clearance should be between 23 to 48 inches. For fixed consoles, the work surface should be set around 28 inches. Ergonomic Passage Around Consoles An aspect that is often overlooked when designing the floor layout is to include a safe passage between and around the consoles when including the chairs. The amount of space allocated between and around the console depends on the level of traffic in each area of the workspace, whether there is a wall behind the console or not, whether consoles are placed back to each other, and whether chairs are static or have wheels on them. About Sustema Sustema specializes in the design and manufacturing of technical furniture and consoles for IT-intensive mission-critical work environments. Sustema has help thousands of clients across North-America implement ergonomic furniture for their control rooms, command centers, and 9-1-1 dispatch centers. Follow us on LinkedIn for design insights and inspiration for your next furniture upgrade https://www.sustema.com/post/ergonomic-clearances-for-room-layouts

Join us at the Sustema booth for an unforgettable experience at APCO 2023 Nashville, TN! We are thrilled to invite you to the highly anticipated Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) 2023, International's Annual Conference & Expo, in Nashville, Tennessee, from August 6th to 9th, 2023. We assure you that this event will leave you inspired and empowered to make impactful decisions for your emergency center. Stop by booth 600 and be sure to register for the draw of a captivating mystery prize, set to be revealed during the APCO 2023 Nashville, TN International Annual Conference & Expo. At Sustema, we believe in the power of first-hand experiences. That's why we will be showcasing one of our remarkable consoles at the booth, allowing you to immerse yourself in our unwavering commitment to quality, ergonomic design, and superior craftsmanship. Our consoles are meticulously crafted to meet the demands of Public Safety Answering Points, and emergency response centers, and we can't wait for you to witness their exceptional functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our esteemed account managers, Derek, Louis, and Mark are eagerly looking forward to connecting with you. They are well-versed in the unique challenges faced by decision-makers like yourself and are passionate about finding tailored solutions to address your specific needs. Prepare for engaging conversations that will undoubtedly spark innovative ideas and opportunities for collaboration. To stay updated on all the latest developments, follow Sustema on social media. Not only will this allow you to learn about the lucky prize winner, but it will also keep the conversation flowing beyond the conference, fostering a strong and enduring partnership. But that's not all! The APCO 2023 Nashville, TN, conference & expo promises to be an event like no other. It offers an unparalleled platform to gain practical, real-world knowledge that you can implement immediately within your organization. With captivating keynote speakers, over one hundred hours of informative breakout sessions, career-building courses and workshops, networking events to foster valuable connections, and an Expo Hall showcasing cutting-edge products and services, APCO 2023 is undeniably the year's most important event in our industry. Here are five compelling reasons why you simply cannot afford to miss #APCO2023: Education: Attendees can earn up to 20 CEUs from 10 professional development tracks with more than 120 individual sessions focused on frontline telecommunicators, leadership development, comm center management, cutting-edge issues, technology, and more. Networking: Four special events (extra fees may apply) with engaging speakers provide an opportunity to learn, laugh and participate in industry-building activities with other public safety communications attendees and exhibitors. Exhibits: More than 200 vendors, representing a wide range of public safety communications products and services, launch new products, provide equipment to test drive, and meet with attendees to discuss purchases or problems. Involvement: Attendees can attend ECC tours, career advancement sessions, and healthy living seminars, as well as donate blood to a local blood bank. All attendees are invited to the general business sessions, and qualified APCO members can vote and attend committee meetings. Fun: Attendees can meet and mingle at the APCO Block Party or tour the city with special discounts on Nashville attractions. We look forward to meeting you at the Sustema booth #600 at the APCO 2023 Nashville, TN conference & expo, where we will explore the endless possibilities for collaboration and success. Let us help elevate your emergency center to new heights. Chat with us now to get a free quote.

Designing an Ergonomic Control Room Layout We start the design process by understanding that no two control rooms are the same. That is why we design a custom solution for all of our clients, whether we are talking about the dimensions of the floor layout, the number of users working in the same room, the type of equipment used (CPUs, KVMS, Monitors), etc. With over 20 years of experience designing and manufacturing technical furniture solutions for a vast array of industries, we have worked with air traffic control, public safety, chemical and petrochemical, telecommunications, transportation, oil and gas, and military and government operations. While these industries share some similarities, every project needs to be assessed through a unique lens. The Control Room Design Process When designing a new control room environment, we work hand in hand with the different stakeholders in the organization throughout the project, to make sure that every aspect corresponds to what our client needs. In order to ensure that nothing gets missed in terms of ergonomics, it can be helpful to start with the macro-environment in mind and move towards the end-user. The framework consists of the following: The Floor Layout: It is important to take into account many factors when looking at maximizing the efficiency of the workflow of the people and processes of the room. Tangible factors like electrical, ventilation, and data are obviously important when planning your control room layout. On the other hand, intangible elements such as noise, lighting, colors in the room, the grouping of people, overall feel and atmosphere of the room are often overlooked during this process. Learn more The Console: A console that is designed with the end-user in mind has the benefit of increasing productivity in the workplace. Users who have to stay at their station for many hours feel less tired, more comfortable, and can therefore stay focused on their tasks. Building an ergonomic console involves the integration of multiple features such as height-adjustable work surfaces but it also means that the furniture can hold all the IT equipment required to perform the job such as multiple screens, power and data ports, KVMs, and much more. Common Types of Control Room Console Configurations How Do You Create An Efficient Control Room Floor Layout? Ergonomics has become an integral part of the design of office and control center equipment and environments. The implementation of a proper ergonomics program has been shown to positively benefit both the operator and the employer. Read More Keep in mind the main purpose of the control room. Is it a dispatch communication center, a security control room, an industrial plant control room? As an example, in industrial applications, safety is the most important factor. You have to eliminate tripping hazards, wide walk areas, reduced clutter on the surface on the consoles so that items are not blocking and controls of the console or IT equipment. Is there anything working against team collaboration and assistance in the control room? Does the layout and console design encourage verbal communication with co-workers? Can a supervisor see all operators in the control room? Can they walk to them in the most realistically direct path? As an example, in an EMS communications room, 5-6 seconds of walk time matter, when a supervisor needs to assist a new call taker with an emergency on the line. Separating the console placement to allow walkaround gives flexibility as well. It can save walking around two or 3 consoles just to get to one. Request a Free Floor Design ! At Sustema, our consoles are designed with a firm understanding of the rigorous conditions that operators face in the control room environment. Please let us know if you have any questions regarding our product and services by contacting us at 1-800-455-8450 or by email at info@sustema.com.

Is a slat wall beneficial, or is it just an aesthetic choice? Let’s discuss how you can keep a dispatch console (or any other control console) clutter-free by using a slat wall system in the command center. A dispatch console can become untidy and messy very quickly with notepads, telephones, radios, office supplies and monitors resting on the work surface. To help operators deal with all the scattered tools on the dispatch console a slat wall is a good solution as it keeps everything the dispatcher needs accessible and organized. How to keep a dispatch console clutter-free with a slat wall After years of designing dispatch consoles and other types of specialized furniture we know how valuable space is in the control room. Specially if the operator must use different types of equipment like a radio, a telephone, and even simple stuff like pen and paper. All of these things add up and clutter the work surface pretty quickly. Why does the problem persist? This happens when the furniture being used was not designed to adapt to the needs of the center. Perhaps when it was first purchased the users were not consulted, or perhaps the operators have had to take on more responsabilities as time goes on, which in turn means more equipment is thrusted upon the console. Working in a cluttered workspace has physical and mental health consequences since every object that is lying on the console doesn’t have a dedicated space, and as such it requires extra effort from the operator to handle it and to keep a semblance of order at their station. Repeating this process all day contributes to an increasing build-up of stress and daily muscle fatigue caused by having to perform the same repetitive motion of reaching for misplaced objects all day long. Why does a dispatch console get cluttered very quickly? There is only so much an operator can tolerate by working on a control console in which they have to adapt to it, instead of having specialized furniture that adapts to them. On the long-run, uncomfortable furniture has a negative impact on the organization by increasing the levels of employee turnover. We previously touched upon this subject last week. Having tools and objects scattered throughout the work surface will cause the operator to constantly reach outside their range of motion. A cluttered work surface impacts the ability of the operator to respond quickly and efficiently to the task at hand. Since the tools like the telephone or writing utensils are constantly being shifted from one position to another, operators have to readjust the way they work, which interrupts their workflow every time they have to rearrange their desk to suit the task at hand. Perhaps managing one telephone on the work surface is not much of a problem. But, when operators have to switch back and forth between different lines and radio equipment, they are confronted with high density of equipment, wiring and electrical services that are using up valuable space and actively contribute to fatigue build-up. After some time this causes the operators to suffer from reduced alertness, attention and vigilance; reduced reaction time, reduced physical capacity, increased sick time, absenteeism and rate of turnover. A slat wall system gives operators easy access to their tools In a control room with clutter-free work surfaces operators can better perform tasks which must be sustained for long periods of time, as well as work tasks which are long repetitive, paced, difficult, boring and monotonous. Since each tool at their disposal has a predetermined place which is always within reach, operators don’t have to worry about finding a new place for it on their workspace and have that mental process always running in the background of their mind. A slat wall provides the operators with a clutter-free workspace that has every tool they need to carry out their job. Having their communications tools, their writing utensils, the monitors, task lamps, status lamps and even their laptops resting on the slat wall frees up their workspace so that they can place temporary items. Since the furniture takes on the role of organizing the tools for the operator to use and store efficiently, they can benefit from an increased alertness, concentration and memory retention. The consequences for operators who work in control consoles that are not designed to accommodate for their jobs can cause them to have poor decision making, bad communication skills and most importantly a reduced ability to handle stress on the job. Keep in mind that a poorly implemented slat wall can further increase the levels of isolation in the control room as it blocks off operators from their colleagues and prevents them from engaging in conversation and team-building. A slat wall can handle an array of monitors, communications tools and even support a laptop, but when designing a new control room, you must ask yourself which tools are required for the job. Just because a control console can handle enormous amounts of equipment doesn’t mean that the operator can do the same. How to implement a slat wall on your control consoles? For control centers that are experiencing high turnover and decreased levels of employee satisfaction, this may be an opportunity to boost staff morale by implementing control consoles that use a slat wall system. This will help operators counter the causes of fatigue throughout their workflow. Having their essential tools within reach and with a predetermined place helps them to better focus on their jobs, and avoid mental and physical fatigue from having to perform repetitive and tedious motions throughout the day, such as having to rearrange what’s in front of them every time they pick up the phone. If you want to know how you can implement a slat wall system in your control room, contact us and our team of specialists and industrial designers will help you create a workspace that adapts to your needs and specific requirements.

Government Control Room in the City of Venice ( Image Source: CNN ) What is a Control Room? A control room is a workspace in a critical-mission environment where professionals spend their time handling complex situations in a variety of industries such as public safety answering points (PSAP), process control, security, finance, transportation, energy & utilities, broadcasting, military, healthcare, IT, etc. No control room is exactly the same as another one. The type of furniture, the layout of the room, and even the amount of workstations available determine the purpose of the command center. Below are some examples of previous projects we have designed and manufactured for our clients. To learn more about each of them you can read our detailed case studies . Also, a control room tends to be highly advanced and sophisticated in terms of technology integration and development. The furniture inside this facilities integrates technology into its structure to ensure a clean, efficient and safe environment. A control room focuses on the connectivity of several components such as the hardware, the online servers, data visualization, video walls system, consoles, efficient workflows, and operator controls. About Sustema Inc. With over 25 years of experience designing modular and ergonomic control room consoles, we’ve manufactured thousands of aesthetically superior designs combined with functional comfort for end-users across North America. We’ve learned to integrate ergonomic standards by considering human factors in every project including the control room layout.

This article intends to showcase the relationship between an ergonomic work environment and its positive effect on employees and companies. Specifically, this article sets out to explain how simple ergonomic adjustments to one's work environment can lead to increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and lower employee turnover. So what exactly is an “ergonomic work environment”? Essentially, ergonomics according to the National Research Council is “the study of human characteristics for the appropriate design of the living and working environment” (Human Factors and Ergonomic Society). Ergonomists attempt to learn about these human characteristics such as but not limited to a person’s potential, restraints, ambitions, motivations, and aspirations with the objective of bettering the work environment. The ultimate goal in ergonomics aside from promoting good posture is to create an office space that is fully tailored to the physiological and mental needs of workers with the hopes of creating a more efficient workspace. This in turn paves the way for improved job performance and overall employee well-being. Though making a work environment more ergonomic seems like a simple task, it is in fact a process that takes into consideration a handful of factors that often go overlooked. According to scientifically proven research, small details such as; the height of the seat, the elbow positioning, the height of the monitor, the distance between the user and the screen, and the height of the desk, all play crucial roles in the overall long term health and job performance. Since the average office worker sits for 10 hours a day, the argument can easily be made that workstations should be as comfortable as the homes we live in. Failure to do so will eventually lead to unwanted negative side effects. The image below shows in detail the exact manner in which a worker should be seated at his or her desk; If we were to compare this photo and its ergonomic set up to our current office set up (desk and chair), we may begin to realize that the neck pain or eye strain we complain about after a long day of work can be avoided altogether with a few simple ergonomic modifications. However if companies and other entities continue to delay converting their workplaces into a more ergonomically friendly one, then they will inevitably continue to operate and perform at a rate far less than their potential. In addition to lesser than ideal job performance, employers will also be faced with more frequent cases of employees being absent due to medical reasons directly associated with the manner in which they are seated at their workstations. Scientists and academic researchers have repeatedly warned society that extended periods of sitting can be dangerous to users. Specifically, they put forth the credible argument that such extended periods of sitting has been associated with a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, depression and obesity, as well as some of the more common problems such as joint issues and muscle pain (Washington Post). Reoccurring evidence on these negative effects of prolonged sitting has led to the rise in popularity of elevating desks also known as the standing desk. The standing desk — ergonomic friendly — encourages and allows workers to opt for standing while working instead of being confined to a chair. And according to Harvard Health Publishing, the simple act of standing while at the workplace has the potential to lower the risks of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and premature death (Harvard Health Publishing). Another key benefit of standing at the workplace is its positive effect on cognitive performance. Since standing requires more effort, the brain is required to manage more variables such as balancing your body weight, controlling muscle contraction, and contributing to cognitive stress. Thus the brain is in a constant state of alertness in comparison to when one sits down. In the image below, we see a worker in action standing at his control station made by Sustema, one of the pioneers in the ergonomic control room furniture industry. Implementing an ergonomic working environment is undeniably costly, but one of the smarter investments a company can make. According to Mark Middlesworth in his 2021 article titled “5 Proven Benefits of Ergonomics in the Workplace ”, employees will take notice of their employers putting forth their best efforts to ensure their health and safety. Employees will also begin to no longer experience tiredness and irritability during their workday, which can “reduce turnover, decrease absenteeism, improve morale and increase employee involvement”. Some other noteworthy findings as it relates to ergonomics are; a 48% average reduction in employee turnover will occur, 75% reduction in lost workdays as well as a 58% average reduction in employee absenteeism. The above statistics can be a tremendous incentive for company’s considering ergonomics! Having understood the importance and benefits of ergonomics at the workplace, Sustema has been on a relentless mission to offer ours clients state-of-the-art, ergonomically focused workstations. All of our products take into account the various factors that lead to better comfort and job performance. We empower our customers to have full control of their workstations by giving them complete control from everything to monitor angles, desk heights, and chair to keyboard distance. When we develop new products or consult with current or prospective clients, we always put ourselves in the shoes of the end-user. One of the first questions we always ask ourselves is “How can we make their day better, more productive, and above all, more comfortable!.” At Sustema , we like to do things the ergonomic way!

Join us at the Sustema booth for an unforgettable experience at NENA 2023 Texas! We are thrilled to invite you to the highly anticipated National Emergency Number Association conference and expo in Grapevine, Texas, from June 17th to 22nd, 2023. We assure you that this event will leave you inspired and empowered to make impactful decisions for your emergency center. Stop by booth 731 and be sure to register for the draw of a captivating mystery prize, set to be revealed during the NENA 2023 Texas conference & expo. At Sustema, we believe in the power of first-hand experiences. That's why we will be showcasing one of our remarkable consoles at the booth, allowing you to immerse yourself in our unwavering commitment to quality, ergonomic design, and superior craftsmanship. Our consoles are meticulously crafted to meet the demands of Public Safety Answering Points, and emergency response centers, and we can't wait for you to witness their exceptional functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our esteemed account managers, Louis, and Mark are eagerly looking forward to connecting with you. They are well-versed in the unique challenges faced by decision-makers like yourself and are passionate about finding tailored solutions to address your specific needs. Prepare for engaging conversations that will undoubtedly spark innovative ideas and opportunities for collaboration. To stay updated on all the latest developments, follow Sustema on social media. Not only will this allow you to learn about the lucky prize winner, but it will also keep the conversation flowing beyond the conference, fostering a strong and enduring partnership. But that's not all! The NENA 2023 Texas conference & expo promises to be an event like no other. It offers an unparalleled platform to gain practical, real-world knowledge that you can implement immediately within your organization. With captivating keynote speakers, over one hundred hours of informative breakout sessions, career-building courses and workshops, networking events to foster valuable connections, and an Expo Hall showcasing cutting-edge products and services, NENA 2023 are undeniably one of the year's most important events in our industry. Here are five compelling reasons why you simply cannot afford to miss #NENA2023: 1. Unparalleled Education and Professional Development: Discover the finest educational and training opportunities for public safety professionals. Acquire knowledge that will elevate your organization's capabilities to new heights. 2. Inspirational Keynotes: Prepare to be motivated and empowered by leadership experts and master motivators who will ignite your passion for driving positive change within your organization. 3. Networking Galore: Engage with like-minded professionals, build meaningful connections, and forge partnerships that will open doors to exciting opportunities in the future. 4. Give Back: Join the Run for 9-1-1 and be a part of a meaningful cause. Contribute to making a difference in the lives of those who dedicate themselves to public safety. 5. Interactive Expo Hall: Immerse yourself in an environment buzzing with the latest and greatest products and services. See, hear, and feel the innovation that is shaping the future of our industry. We look forward to meeting you at the Sustema booth #731 at the NENA 2023 Texas conference & expo, where we will explore the endless possibilities for collaboration and success. Let us help elevate your emergency center to new heights. Chat with us now to get a free quote.

In the high-stakes environment of control centers, where critical decisions are made and lives are impacted, the significance of optimal lighting conditions cannot be overstated. Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the well-being, alertness, and performance of dispatchers who tirelessly operate in these 24/7 workspaces. By understanding the interplay between lighting and human physiology, we can unlock insights that empower us to create control center environments that foster productivity, resilience, and mental well-being. In this article, we explore the fascinating world of control center lighting, examining the connection between lighting and circadian rhythms, the role of lighting in reducing eye strain, and how thoughtful lighting design can elevate console operators' experiences. Join us on this illuminating journey as we shed light on the path to enhanced control center ergonomics. Understanding the Impact of Lighting on the human body The human body operates on a natural cycle known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep-wake patterns and influences various physiological processes. Control center operators, who often work extended shifts and irregular hours, are particularly susceptible to disruptions in their circadian rhythms. Lighting plays a vital role in regulating these internal body clocks and promoting optimal alertness and performance. Research has shown that exposure to bright, blue-rich light during the day can enhance alertness and cognitive function, while warmer, dimmer light in the evening promotes relaxation and prepares the body for sleep. The careful management of lighting intensity and color temperature can help prevent excessive fatigue and the associated negative effects on cognitive performance. By providing an optimal lighting environment that takes into consideration the circadian rhythms of console operators, control centers can promote sustained attention, reduce errors, and enhance operational efficiency. Alleviating Eye Strain with Thoughtful Lighting Design Control center operators, including 911 dispatchers, are often required to monitor multiple screens and maintain constant visual focus for extended periods. This demanding task can put significant strain on their eyes, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term vision problems. However, with the right lighting design, control centers can mitigate eye strain and create a more comfortable and productive work environment. A transit operator works diligently with their console and a video wall. One key aspect of lighting design that can help reduce eye strain is proper task lighting. Adequate illumination of workstations and control panels ensures that dispatchers can read information clearly without straining their eyes. Adjustable task lights with dimming capabilities allow operators to customize the lighting level to their specific needs, minimizing glare and optimizing visual comfort. Another consideration is the use of indirect lighting to provide uniform illumination across the control center. Indirect lighting fixtures, such as recessed ceiling lights or wall washers, distribute light evenly throughout the space, reducing the contrast between bright screens and dark surroundings. This helps alleviate eye fatigue by creating a more balanced visual environment and reducing the strain caused by constant shifts in brightness. Integrating Ergonomics and Lighting for Operator Well-being Creating a control center environment that promotes operator well-being goes beyond lighting design alone. Ergonomics plays a crucial role in ensuring the comfort, health, and productivity of control center operators. By integrating ergonomic principles with thoughtful lighting design, control centers can create a holistic approach to support their operators. Proper ergonomic design focuses on optimizing the physical layout of control center workstations, including console placement, monitor positioning, and adjustability of furniture. When combined with appropriate lighting, ergonomic considerations can further enhance operator comfort and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and fatigue. An ergonomic control console should allow operators to adjust the height and tilt of their monitors to minimize glare and maintain a neutral viewing angle. This helps prevent eye strain and neck discomfort, particularly during long hours of continuous monitoring. Additionally, control center operators should have access to adjustable task chairs that provide proper lumbar support and encourage good posture. Moreover, implementing biophilic design elements in control center environments can positively impact operator well-being. Natural elements, such as plants or views of the outdoors, have been shown to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance productivity. Integrating these elements, along with proper lighting, creates a more pleasant and visually appealing work environment for control center operators. The Role of Ergonomic Control Room Furniture in Enhancing Lighting Design Ergonomic control room furniture plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of lighting design in control centers. It provides the foundation for operators to work comfortably and efficiently, complementing the benefits of well-designed lighting solutions. Let's explore the key aspects of ergonomic control room furniture that contribute to operator well-being and lighting optimization. 1. Adjustable Workstations: Ergonomic control room furniture offers height-adjustable workstations, allowing operators to find their optimal seated or standing position. This flexibility promotes good posture, reduces the risk of discomfort, and enables operators to align their line of sight with monitors and lighting sources effectively. 2. Cable Management: Effective cable management is vital for both ergonomic and lighting purposes. Well-designed control room furniture incorporates cable management solutions to keep cables organized, preventing clutter and ensuring that lighting fixtures are unobstructed. This helps maintain optimal lighting conditions and reduces the risk of accidents or damage caused by tangled cables. 3. Customizable Configurations: Ergonomic control room furniture is often modular and customizable to fit the unique needs of each control center. This allows for optimal placement of lighting fixtures, control panels, and monitors, ensuring that lighting is evenly distributed across workstations. Customizable configurations also facilitate efficient collaboration and information sharing among operators. 4. Task Chairs with Ergonomic Features: Operator chairs are a critical component of ergonomic control room furniture. They should offer ergonomic features such as adjustable height, lumbar support, and cushioning to promote comfortable seating during long hours of operation. Additionally, chairs with breathable and moisture-wicking materials contribute to operator comfort, reducing distractions caused by discomfort. 5. Durability and Longevity: Ergonomic control room furniture is designed to withstand the demands of 24/7 operations. High-quality materials and construction ensure durability, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. This reliability extends to lighting fixtures, ensuring consistent and effective lighting over an extended period. City of Springfield Emergency Communications Center. In conclusion, the impact of lighting conditions in control centers cannot be underestimated. By understanding the impact of lighting design choices on the human body, control centers can implement effective lighting solutions that prioritize operator well-being, performance, and overall efficiency. Through the integration of lighting design principles, ergonomic control room furniture, and advanced technologies, control centers can create an environment that fosters optimal working conditions for operators, leading to improved productivity and enhanced decision-making. As technology and industry demands continue to evolve, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest advancements in lighting design and ergonomic solutions to continually enhance the control center environment. We are on social! Learn of the latest trends in 911 dispatcher centers by following us on social media. We publish daily about the latest design trends in specialized furniture, how you can apply ergonomics for a human centered workplace and offer exclusive insights into our design and manufacturing process.

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