Search Results

Telecommunicators, often referred to as 911 operators are the unsung heroes of emergency response teams. These frontline workers are responsible for answering distress calls and coordinating first responders, such as police, ambulances, and firefighters. Despite working in a highly stressful environment, telecommunicators are able to remain calm and empathetic, making them an essential part of the emergency response system. Annie, a telecommunicator with 15 years of experience, says, “I love to help. Being a telecommunicator means having a positive impact on the lives of people who need it most. I'm doing something real to help save lives.” In addition to their empathetic nature, telecommunicators also rely on their team to diffuse a crisis. When a major event occurs, everyone in the emergency room works together to ensure quick and efficient results. In a field where every second counts, trust, and teamwork are vital. Though their job may not be as glamorous as that of other first responders, telecommunicators are an integral part of the emergency response system. They work long hours, managing stress and multiple monitors, all while helping to save lives. Sustema, a company that manufactures control consoles for 911 operations, would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to telecommunicators for their hard work and sacrifice. They are the unsung heroes of emergency response teams and deserve recognition for their dedication to serving their communities.

As the holiday season approaches, we at Sustema wanted to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to all of our valued customers. Your trust and support have been invaluable to us, and we are grateful to have had the opportunity to serve you throughout the year. This year, we reached an important milestone for our company as we expanded our presence to 25 states. We couldn't have done it without you, and we want to thank you for your continued support and partnership. In this blog post, we want to not only thank you for your trust, but also wish you a happy holiday season and all the best for the new year. At Sustema, we value the feedback of our customers, and we have received valuable insights from those who have chosen our products for their control console needs. Whether through phone calls, emails or in-person conversations, your input has helped us to continuously improve the functionality and reliability of our products. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from you and to use your feedback to inform our product development. Your trust in our products is what drives us to constantly strive for excellence, and we are grateful for your support in helping us to achieve this goal. As we celebrated the holiday season, Sustema marked the occasion with a festive and exciting laser tag game. A few weeks later, the sales department organized a cozy pizza party to show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of all our employees throughout the year. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our team in building control consoles and this was a small token of our gratitude. We hope that the coming year is filled with success and fulfillment for everyone. Please note that Sustema will be closed for the holiday season starting next week. We will return to business as usual after the holiday break, refreshed and ready to serve our clients to the best of our ability. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding. We remain committed to providing top-quality support to our clients in their mission-critical environments and if you have any questions or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season and a happy 2023.

The Importance of Ergonomics and Anthropometry in Workplace Design Ergonomics is the study of the natural conduct of the human organism during work, with the aim of fitting the job to the worker. The word ergonomics comes from the Greek words "ergon" meaning work, and "nomos" meaning law or popular standards. In other words, it is the study of how to design jobs, equipment, and environments to be safe and comfortable for people to work in. By considering ergonomics in the design process, organizations can improve the health and well-being of their workers, and enhance their overall productivity and performance. Ergonomics is the scientific discipline that studies the interactions between humans and other elements of a system, with the goal of optimizing human well-being and overall system performance. Anthropometry, on the other hand, is the study of the measurements of the proportions, size, and weight of the human body. While ergonomics considers a wide range of factors that can affect human performance and well-being in a given environment, anthropometry focuses specifically on the physical characteristics of the human body. Both fields are important in designing environments, equipment, and tasks that are safe, comfortable, and efficient for people to use. A brief history of ergonomics The term "ergonomics" was first used in its full sense in 1949, but the study of ergonomics has a long history. Pioneers in the field include Leonardo da Vinci, who first identified the body's reaching abilities around each joint, and Jean Borelli, who established the body's acceptable levels of weight lifting. Vauban was influential in determining the duration of reasonable working shifts and the importance of breaks and days off. Many other doctors, physiologists, psychologists, and engineers have contributed to the study of ergonomics, developing methods for calculating people's abilities to work, identifying their limitations, and defining the working conditions that are best for them. The impact of ergonomic design on operator health in a command center The objectives of implementing ergonomic principles into a command center include fitting the job to the worker, preventing negative afflictions, and creating a work environment that is least stressful, most comfortable, and most productive. By considering ergonomics in the design of furniture and equipment, it is possible to prevent negative effects on the human body and ensure that people are able to sustain the physical and mental demands of their work. This can help to minimize stress and fatigue, and prevent the acceleration of aging or deterioration of physical and psychological health. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain the health and productivity of workers in the command center. Understanding Ergonomic Guidelines for Effective Design There are several organizations and publications that provide guidelines and recommendations for the implementation of ergonomic principles. The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) are two key organizations in this field. Some notable publications include the American National Standard for Human Factors Engineering of Visual Display Terminal Workstations (ANSI/HFS 100-1988) and the National Human Factors Engineering of Computer Workstations (ANSI/HFES 100-2007), which is considered to be the most comprehensive, the highest level of expertise and is the most current ergonomic standard in the world at this point in time. These guidelines provide recommendations on a wide range of factors that can affect human performance and well-being in the workplace, including lighting, temperature, and the design of equipment and furniture. The Role of Human Percentiles in Creating a Comfortable and Effective Command Center When designing for a wide range of user sizes, it is common to use anthropometric data expressed in percentiles. This is because body size can vary widely, and using averages alone is not sufficient. Instead, it is necessary to deal with ranges of sizes. Percentiles are a way of expressing these ranges, indicating the percentage of people within a population who have a certain body dimension. For example, the 5th percentile female height means that 95% of the female population is taller, and only 5% of the population is the same height or shorter. This allows designers to take into account the full range of body sizes when designing products or environments. The Importance of Keyboard Surface Height in Ergonomic Design When designing a keyboard work surface, it is important to consider the heights of the work surface in relation to the user. Typically, designers and engineers will use either the 5th percentile female measurement or the 95th percentile male measurement, depending on the needs of the design. For example, the maximum height of a keyboard work surface should be based on the elbow height of the 95th percentile male, which is approximately 48 inches. The minimum height should be determined according to the 5th percentile female elbow height when seated, which is approximately 22 inches. This is why many sit-stand stations have keyboard work surfaces that are adjustable from 23 to 48 inches. In addition to adjusting the height of the work surface, it is also important to consider good posture when using a keyboard. Recommended elbow angles are between 70 and 135 degrees, and torso-to-thigh angles should be equal to or greater than 90 degrees. Armrests on chairs should be positioned directly under the elbow height. These recommendations can be achieved through adjustments to the work surface and the chair. How to Choose the Right Monitor and Viewing Distance for an Ergonomic Workstation When designing a monitor work surface, it is important to consider the height of the surface in relation to the user's eye level. The minimum and maximum heights should be based on the eye height and eye height sitting measurements of the 5th percentile female and 95th percentile male, respectively. The horizontal eye level should be aligned with the top of the monitor screen, and the center of the visual display screen should be located 15 to 25 degrees below horizontal eye level. This means that the surface heights should be adjustable from 27 to 53 inches, which accommodates screens that are up to 15 inches high. In addition to adjusting the height of the work surface, it is also important to consider the viewing distance when using a monitor. The recommended viewing distance is between 20 to 39 inches from the eyes to the front surface of the screen. To comply with this recommendation, some monitor arms and shelves are adjustable, allowing users to position the monitor at the optimal distance and height. The Importance of Horizontal work envelope in Ergonomic Design To determine the optimal placement of office accessories on a work surface, it is important to consider the main tasks that the user will be performing. The most commonly used items should be placed within the primary work zone, which is the shape swept out on the work surface by rotating the forearm horizontally at elbow height. This recommendation is based on the 5th percentile female. For example, if the main items used are a keyboard and mouse, they should be placed within the forearm reaching envelope, with limited twisting of the body. The secondary zone is the extended forearm reaching envelope, where other accessories such as a telephone or pencil tray can be placed. The minimum width of a workstation is based on the forearm-to-forearm breadth of a 95th percentile male user, with an additional 3.3-inch margin for postural adjustment. This is strictly an anthropometric requirement and ensures that users have sufficient space to perform their tasks without discomfort or strain. Applying Ergonomic Principles to clearance under the worksurface in a Command Center Design Clearances under the work surface of a control console should be designed to accommodate users ranging from the 5th percentile female to the 95th percentile male. This means providing sufficient space for the operator's thighs, knees, legs, and feet, while also allowing the work surface to be low enough for devices such as keyboards and monitors. For this reason, height clearances are recommended to be adjustable from 20 inches (for the 5th percentile female) to 28 inches (for the 95th percentile male). In terms of width and depth, a minimum of 21 inches is needed for legroom, and 24 inches is needed for foot clearance. At the level of the knee, the clearance should be at least 17 inches. These recommendations ensure that users have sufficient space to move and work comfortably at the control console. If we look at this chart, comparing human standards with our Transit and Focus stations, we can see that Sustema's products meet or exceed these standards. The first column shows the ANSI/HFES requirements, the middle column shows the specifications of the Transit console, and the last column shows the specifications of the Focus console in relation to the standards described in the first column. In conclusion, ergonomics plays a crucial role in command centers, as it helps to prevent negative impacts on the operator's health and can enhance productivity. By applying ergonomic principles to work stations, we can ensure that operators are able to work comfortably and efficiently, while also promoting healthy living conditions in the long term. The key to successful ergonomic design is adjustability. By providing adjustable work surfaces, chairs, monitors, and other office accessories, we can accommodate a wider range of users and ensure that everyone is able to work comfortably and productively. If you want to create a comfortable and productive work environment for your operators, consider implementing ergonomic principles in the design of your control console. By using ergonomic guidelines and taking into account the unique needs of your operators, you can create a control center that maximizes efficiency and minimizes the risk of physical and mental health issues. Contact us today to learn more about how ergonomics can benefit your command center.

The difference between an ordinary office desk and a control console is that the latter integrates power and data into its structure. Cable management is a core feature of the design of a control console. For example, with Sustema’s Focus series, power and data cables can run independently on separate raceways to ensure these is no electromagnetic interference due to the high voltage needed to power a control console with, say 4 or 6 monitors and 2 or more CPUs. However, depending on your needs you may find yourself with a different console design like Sustema’s Transit S series, which doesn’t feature a focus wall to pass power and data. In addition, your worksurface might even be height adjustable, so naturally cable management for such a console must account for different heights which means that cables going from the CPU enclosure must be hidden and secured, while leaving some leeway. The easiest way to address this issue might be to say “Well, just tie the cable to the upper most part of the actuators (the moving pillars which lift or lower the worksurface) and leave the cable dangling underneath the console. But, however tempting that might be, and despite the fact that you might get away with it in a work from home setup. A command center, however, is a 24/7 critical environment. The information passing through those cables is critical data, like a bus's location, an airplane’s status, the current pressure on the electrical grid of your city, or someone’s 911 call. So, leaving the cables dangling around is certainly not an option. So, how do control consoles handle cable management, and how can you implement those same principles in your command center? Think (inside) the box Think of cable management not as an obstacle but as an asset. For instance, a Focus console features separate power raceways that go inside the wall structure from the CPU enclosure all the way to the work surface in the form of a monument which can be equipped with usb ports for charging up a phone without connecting it to the computer (a common security error). Another solution would be to add a power bar just underneath the worksurface, fixed to its metal substructure working in tandem with a monument system on the worksurface. A monument system can also provide a headphone jack, additional power outlets, HDMI and other display ports. The best thing about running your cables through a wall structure is that power and data are easily accessible by the operator, while there’s no risk of accidental disconnects, or someone tripping over a dangling ethernet cable and causing an accident, in a 24/7 environment, where no one can afford to stop their work. What goes up must unequivocally come down. For some control consoles that don’t have a wall structure to support them, cable management alternatives still exist. Think of the Transit S series, which is a height adjustable console designed to accommodate more than one operator throughout the 24/7 shift. In this scenario, power and data cables run through raceways that cover the entire walls surfaces of the CPU’s enclosures. To account for the height adjustability issue, the console features a cable chain system that routes the cables from the work surface to the CPU enclosure. Ensuring that the vertical movement of the surface doesn’t cause any cable pulling or interruption. To allow access to power and data, you can use outlets like a monument system or other custom solutions like a gromet hole. The cables in turn can be connected directly from the monitors to the CPU, or in the case of requiring power outlets on the worksurface, they can go to a power distribution unit underneath the metal substructure of the console. Of course, where your data and power cables come from will limit your options and guide the layout design of your command center. But whether you are running your cables along a designated raceway along a support wall, or you are storing them and organizing them inside the CPU enclosure and securing your cables inside a cable chain system, and maximizing the substructure of your control console, it is important that power and data cables and outlets remain accessible from the front or back panels for quick equipment troubleshooting. Contact us so we can help you design the right control console for your mission critical operations.

Modern life is mostly digital. Which means that almost everything we do runs on computers. For example, whenever we have an important meeting in downtown and we rely on public transport to get there, we assume that the train will be on time. Or, if we use a car, we drive on the assumption that the traffic lights will work and change color appropriately. Most people don’t think too much about these things. But others, like yourself, are not afraid to ask; “How does it all work?”, “Who monitors all the traffic lights on your way to work?”, “Who is in charge of coordinating the thousands of buses that move people around all day?”, “How can I know the exact position of the train and plan my day in advance by just checking my phone?” Simple. Daily life, yours and mine, as well as every crisis and emergency; they are all run, monitored, analyzed and processed from a command center. A command center is a 24/7 environment, filled with specialized furniture system like Sustema’s very own Focus series of control consoles. Now, going back to our public transit example, I want you to think about the city of Montreal, which “operates the most heavily used urban mass transit system in Canada, and one of the most heavily used rapid transit systems in North America.” In Montreal, public transport falls under the responsibility of the STM, Societe de transport de Montreal. However, the STM only handles transit within Montreal. The commuter rail and bus services operating well outside Montreal’s city limits fall under the jurisdiction of Exo, although its official name is Réseau de transport métropolitain, or RTM. Picture the command center operated by the RTM, which is an IT intensive environment, filled with control consoles like the Focus system, featuring a HPL (high pressure laminated) work surface that is durable enough to stay like-new for more than 15 years. However, durability and toughness are not everything. Traffic controllers work very long hours, so the Focus system also boasts an ergonomic design that meets modern criteria of esthetics and comfort, such as allowing for different shapes and dimensions that adapt to its users' needs and environments. The RTM operates commuter train service as well as the bus service outside of the three main population centres of Greater Montreal, which means that they must coordinate with three different corporations in charge of their respective transit operations, the three of them being; STM in Montreal, the STL in Laval, and the RTL for the urban agglomeration of Longueuil. These 3 corporations run bus routes 24/7, so the RTM is constantly receiving information and making changes to their routes accordingly. Also, don’t forget that the Exo (RTM) commuter trains operate on tracks owned by either Canadian National or Canadian Pacific. Which use the tracks for merchandise transportation, and can often have their own delays and malfunctions, which in turn affect the RTM’s own operations. To manage this workload, a traffic controller in an RTM command center requires up to 6 monitors to work efficiently. For that, the Focus system features a slat wall structure which is a high resistance anodized aluminium panel that enables the monitors and accessories to be attached and integrated to the system. This in turn results in a clutter-free workspace that helps the traffic controller focus and increase their productivity. Aside from providing a comfortable and ergonomic workspace, the Focus control consoles integrates an elegant solution for cable management inside its wall’s panels. Traffic controllers receive and process ludicrous amounts of data coming from their 6 commuter train lines and 59 stations, as well as their own 237 bus routes, 52 taxibus routes, and paratransit services, all of them running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Which means that data and power must travel through separate channels so as to not cause electromagnetic interference that could slow down or even compromise operations. How a control console protects power and data The Focus system can accommodate one or two power raceways, providing 12 or 24 electric outlets per section and a third and separate horizontal passage for data cable management. The critical information like the train’s or a bus's location travels through the dedicated cable rack and if needed, a technician can access and service the machine’s connection simply by removing a wall panel, without disrupting the traffic controller’s concentration. Alongside the data and electric cables, the computers running the RTM’s monitoring vital programs are also easily accessible and secured – in a computer storage compartment located beneath the console’s work surface. Unlike traditional office furniture, the Focus console features a swing out PC enclosure that is suspended from the floor, allowing the traffic controller to benefit from extra leg room, and when it’s time for cleaning, a broom, mop or even a vacuum cleaner can easily fit under the console without touching the PC or the data and energy cables. For a command center like the one used by the RTM, versatility is a must. Which is why the Focus system serves as an excellent entry level choice for equipping a transit command center for managing commuter train operations, keeping tabs on hundreds of bus routes and coordinating with local transit corporations, and ensuring customers are always timely informed of any delays and available alternatives. The Focus systems used by Exo are the daily workspace for more than 120 inspectors and security agents who supervise the various parking spaces, terminus stations, transit stations and the trains themselves that connect the greater Montreal area. A control console with a durable and modular nature ensures that no matter how many buses or trains the corporation decides to operate, their surveillance operations center can be adapted and customized to their traffic controller’s needs. Are you looking for specialized furniture? Sustema offers several solutions for mission critical environments like the RTM and other public transit command centers. Contact us to get a quote. Sources: “Dans les coulisses du RTM : le Centre d’opérations et de surveillance.” Exo, Accessed 3 December, 2022. https://exo.quebec/fr/actualites/nouvelles-evenements/nouvelles/dans-les-coulisses-du-rtm-le-centre-d%E2%80%99operations-et-de-surveillance “Trip planner.” Exo, Accessed 3 December, 2022. https://exo.quebec/en/trip-planner/train “The Réseau de transport métropolitain becomes exo.” Cision, Accessed 3 December, 2022. https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/the-reseau-de-transport-metropolitain-becomes-exo-683503751.html Réseau de transport métropolitain (RTM). “Rapport annuel 2018.” Exo. 2019

If you have ever found yourself calling 911, you have connected with someone whose official job title is a “ telecommunicator ”. They are the ones who connect first responders with the people who need them. These people are beyond essential, they are critical! As you can imagine, performing this job is stressful to say the least. There is lots of information that needs to be processed, which in turn means that to track everything, these people need a great amount of accurate information. In fact, these types of jobs, due to the nature of their importance, cannot afford to stop. Since the operators are glued to their station (these are not standard office desks), they must have a station that is as comfortable and versatile as humanly possible. For example, to counter the long hours these consoles (yeah, that’s what they are called!) need to be height adjustable, and their design must meet the highest ergonomic standards. You see where I am getting at? Workspaces for control rooms like the ones in emergency dispatch centers need highly specialized furniture . The consoles used in any mission critical environment must fulfill these four requirements: They must support a great quantity of IT equipment (anything from 4 to 12 monitors, CPUs, KVMs, Rackmount equipment). They must be durable and sustain 24 hours shifts, all 7 days of the week, all 365 days of the year. They must include sufficient space for adequate cable management. They must prioritize health by implementing ergonomics principles . So, you must be wondering, who makes this stuff? And most importantly, where can I buy one? Well, first, we manufacture these consoles right here in our not so little workshop in the heart of Montreal. On another occasion we will share with you the process our people follow to make the greatest setups for critical control rooms using nothing more than their wit, and a lot, and I mean it eh, a lot of steel. As I recently learned, Sustema has more than 20 years of experience manufacturing specialized furniture for critical environments, or as I prefer to call it, we make the meanest setups I have seen. As for where you can buy them: well, you will not find them on Best buy, that is for sure. In fact, I am not sure how one goes about buying one of these consoles. For that I am going to have to ask one of my teammates, maybe I’ll ask Drew about it . So, expect another post on that topic. What I do know is that there is not a one size fits all. In fact, every project has some degree of customization, but since all the consoles are modular, then it is easy to build and adapt the control center to (in this case “your”) needs. So, if you want to have six monitors for your surveillance station that is not an issue. Oh, you want to have integrated heating for those cold months that are half a year here in Canada? No problemo . In fact, we can even add fans if you want to keep it cool. See what I did there? I still need to learn more about the early days of the internet but what matters to you is that Sustema has been around for a long time. Since 1996 to be precise. The company is older than me! And I am fascinated by the evolution of their control rooms. Now, all games aside, it is important that you know that Sustema does not make desks. Remember, they are called consoles, or if you want to get technical, we manufacture specialized furniture for IT and mission critical environments.

With so many people now working remotely, the prospect of returning to in-person work after COVID can be daunting. However, with a little preparation, you can make the transition back to the office as smooth as possible. Here are five tips for ensuring a successful return to in-person work after COVID. 1. Communicate With Your Team One of the most important things you can do when returning to in-person work after COVID is to communicate with your team. This means sharing your plans for returning and setting expectations for how things will operate during the transition. It’s also important to be open and communicative about how you’re feeling. Returning to the office after a long period of working from home can be overwhelming, and it’s important to let your team know if you need any help or support. 2. Get Organized Getting organized is another key to a successful return to in-person work after COVID. This means taking some time before returning to assess what needs to be done and creating a plan for how you will tackle it. This may include setting up specific times for checking in with remote team members, creating a system for tracking tasks or establishing meeting protocols. Having a plan in place will help you feel more confident as you return to the office and minimize stress. 3. Set Boundaries When returning to in-person work, it’s important to set boundaries with your team and colleagues. This may mean setting limits on after-work socializing, being clear about when you are available for meetings or calls or creating space for yourself to adjust to the new environment. Setting boundaries will help you feel more comfortable as you transition back to the office and will ensure that you are able to focus on your work. 4. Take Breaks Working from home has likely given you more flexibility when it comes to taking breaks, and it’s important to keep this up when you return to the office. Make sure to take time for yourself throughout the day, even if it’s just a few minutes to step away from your desk. Taking breaks will help you avoid burnout as you transition back to in-person work and will allow you to come back to your tasks feeling refreshed. 5. Be Flexible It’s also important to be flexible when returning to in-person work after COVID. Things may not go exactly as planned, and there may be bumps along the way. But by being flexible and adaptable, you can make the transition back to the office much smoother. Flexibility can come in many forms, from being open to working different hours to being willing to try new methods of communication. Whatever it looks like for you, being flexible will help you and your team as you return to in-person work. Final Thoughts The thought of returning to in-person work after COVID can be daunting, but there are ways to make the transition smoother. Keep these tips in mind as you return to in-person work after COVID, and you’ll be on your way to a successful transition.

On May 23rd-25th 2022, our very own Mark Meschino and Nadjib Rahal attended Distributech in Dallas, Texas. As a platform for Electricity transmission organizations and their end-users, Distributech brings industry leaders from all over the globe, providing exhibitors and guests with the opportunity to network, exchange industry insights, and discuss relevant topics as they pertain to the utility industry. As you may already know, the energy sector has and continues to play a critical role in our lives and is constantly evolving, as government leaders and environmentalists identify ways to preserve the planet and provide greener, more environmentally sustainable energy. The following article highlights these evolving trends in the energy sector and provides you with an overview of how we at Sustema also practice more socially responsible manufacturing processes. We believe that it is all of our responsibilities to put forth our best business practices to ensure a healthier environment for generations to come. These days, almost everyone agrees with the fact that in order to minimize the environmental damage we are causing to the earth's environment, we have to switch from the usage of fossil fuels. This reality has prompted led to significant scientific and business innovations that have assisted humanity in looking for improved, more sustainable ways of powering the planet. Green Hydrogen Energy Hydrogen as we’ve come to realize is the vastest resource on our planet and produces nearly zero greenhouse gas emissions when burnt. These two qualities; the abundance and zero greenhouse gas emissions make hydrogen a very intriguing source of energy from an environmental perspective. Conventionally, however, it has been difficult to convert hydrogen into fuel because the process itself involves the consumption of fossil fuels and the production of CO2 emissions. Some examples are brown hydrogen which is derived from coal and grey hydrogen which is derived from natural gas. Green carbon, on the other hand, is produced by a process that involves water and electrolysis, which in turn produces the necessary electricity from renewable sources such as solar and wind, essentially making the latter option carbon-free. Bioenergy In recent years, we have seen a strong trend toward trying to unlock the potential of biomass as a source of energy for human society. To produce more efficient fuel from biological matter (such as wood, sugarcane, or even waste materials), chemical, and biological processes are used. For example, fermentation is used to produce bioethanol and biodiesel. The Internet of Energy Energy generation and distribution are one of the areas of the internet of things (IoT). It is closely linked with the idea of energy decentralization - a move towards a more sustainable power infrastructure where energy is used close to the time and place when it is created. Conclusion We all have a responsibility to ensure we encourage the use of clean and sustainable energy. We are aware of this issue as a company and are committed to doing so all while protecting the environment, conserving natural resources, and reducing emissions. Sustema has incorporated environmental protection and energy efficiency measures into our business practices, some even exceeding regulatory guidelines. To that effect, we are committed to designing and manufacturing products that go beyond compliance with environmental and energy regulations including: Use low emitting raw materials Water-based adhesive Use non-VOC emitting finishes Pursue prevention of pollution and elimination of waste of any kind Implement technologies to efficiently use energy resources Recycle electronics, lamps, batteries, and waste Use less paper or use recycled paper Use non-toxic cleaning material In keeping with these objectives, we have asked our suppliers as well to participate and have asked them to launch initiatives that set significant sustainability targets for the years to come.

By Sustema Over the past few years, we’ve noticed that employers are investing more resources into creating more optimal workspaces. It comes as no surprise that the industries we operate in, are some of the most physically and mentally demanding ones. From emergency dispatch centers to utility centers, these industries operate at a high pace, requiring a 24/7 focus. In addition to such high demands, comes the fact that most of these industries often involve extended working hours in comparison to other more conventional jobs. It is not uncommon for employees at a given dispatch center to work upwards of 12 hours per shift. That is why at Sustema, our team of experienced sales reps, designers, and engineers pay close attention to our customers' needs, not only from a functionality perspective but from a design one as well. The following article sets out to address some of the more popular design trends we see occurring in the control room industry today. 1. An Emphasis on Ergonomics 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. It has been said, that 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 (BostonTec, 2020). 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. 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, a 75% reduction in lost workdays as well as a 58% average reduction in employee absenteeism. As you can see in the images below, all of our consoles generally adhere to ergonomic standards (also read our article on ergonomics). Our Transit series offers a dual, height-adjustable surface, which allows multiple users to preset their desired heights for their keyboards and monitor surfaces. This also allows users to stand while working, which has been proven to offer certain health benefits (see article on advantages of standing at the workplace). Our transit series also comes equipped with curved edges allowing for the uttermost forearm comfort and preventing injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome (see article on curved edges). 2. An Emphasis on Aesthetics More and more, we find our customers paying closer attention to the design process of their consoles. Several options within the design process exist: Surface color: Selecting the right surface color is an important part of the design process. At Sustema, we offer upwards of 20 different surface colors and finishes, with the most popular being grey tones, according to John Greene (lead engineer at Sustema). Swipe right to see some of the more popular surface colors at Sustema Edge type: Surprisingly, not all consoles have the same edge. At Sustema, our clients have access to upwards of 10 different edge types, and believe it or not, every edge type comes with its' own set of advantages. Some of the most common types of edges are the following: Urethane, T-Molding, and Edgebands. 3. An Emphasis on Employee Productivity Gone are the days when a desk was just a desk. Today's control-room workers are highly skilled individuals, requiring much more than just your traditional desk. It isn't uncommon for many of our clients to require upwards of 6 computer monitors, integrated cooling & heating systems, as well as fully adjustable lighting systems. Today's consoles are often equipped with features that are often overlooked by the naked eye, however, are the determining factor between an employee having a mediocre work shift and a highly productive work shift. In our recent article titled "How Ergonomics Improves Job Performance", we explained how employees will recognize their employers making an effort to ensure their health and safety via investing in ergonomic consoles. 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”. 4. An Emphasis on Durability It's always tempting to want to equip your control rooms with consoles that are more cost-effective. However, before making the decision to purchase just any console, make sure to inform yourself first on what materials are being used and are there any warranties included with your console? At Sustema, we've seen numerous clients come to us disappointed with their original console purchases. One of the most common comments we get is that the consoles broke down much earlier than anticipated at which point we remind them that many console manufacturers fail to recognize the fact that control room consoles are being put to use 24/7/365. This means that in order for the consoles to last the test of time, the uttermost top-quality materials are required. At Sustema, we don't cut any corners just to save on costs. Rather we go above and beyond industry standards to ensure that our consoles are built to last. And surely, it's one thing to make the claim that our consoles are built to last, but it's another to back that claim with a limited lifetime warranty. Due to the many quality control protocols implemented into our manufacturing process, we've built a strong reputation for building superior consoles, with one of the highest approval rates in the industry. Conclusion Whether you're new to control room consoles, or you're a seasoned veteran, the trends will continue to evolve to meet the physical and aesthetic requirements of the many different industries we serve. For more information on today's current trends, give us a call today at 1-800-455-8450 or email us and our member of our team will be glad to help you.

By Sustema Note from the Author This article sets out to explain what exactly mental health is and how the workplace can affect it, either positively or negatively. Since we at Sustema, specialize in creating unique workplaces in highly strenuous environments, we felt the need to address the rising trend in mental health awareness. At the bottom of the article, we’ve included resources that can help you or someone you know help manage your mental health. What is Mental Health? The term mental health refers to our behavioral, cognitive, and emotional well-being. It is essentially concerned with the manner in which people behave, think, and feel. People frequently use the term to signify the absence of a mental disorder(s). Several factors contribute to mental health issues, including but not limited to: Biological factors, such as our genes or brain’s chemistry Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse Family history of mental health issues Taking care of our mental health can improve our ability to enjoy life. Doing so requires taking a balanced approach to our lives. Specifically, it is important to not prioritize tasks such as work and school over leisure activities that bring us joy such as exercise and traveling. Mental Health at the Workplace Work-related stress is a major cause of issues related to mental health, poor physical health, decreased productivity, and human error. This results in an increase in absenteeism, a higher staff turnover, and poor job performance. In addition, an increase in accidents can arise in the workspace due to fatigued and stressed employees. Work-related stress could also have physical side effects such as heart disease, headaches, back pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, or various minor illnesses. In addition to the latter complications, some may experience psychological effects such as depression and anxiety, a loss of concentration, and poor decision-making. Put simply, stress is the unwanted reaction people experience to excessive amounts of pressure. Interestingly however is the fact that it has been proven that an apparent distinction between pressure and stress. Pressure in the scientific community can be considered to be a motivating factor, while stress, on the other hand, occurs when the pressure becomes excessive. The mental health of a company’s employees is increasingly becoming a determining factor in the company’s overall performance and profitability. As such, companies have invested significant resources into improving their workspaces, making for a more comfortable work environment. For example, the corporate environment has seen a huge uptrend in ergonomics; the application of psychological and physiological principles to the engineering and design of products, processes, and systems. Also, employers have now been offering their employees the option of working a hybrid schedule (a combination of in-person and remote work). The above-mentioned examples have had a positive effect on mental health and subsequently, a decrease in physical illnesses which tend to arise from poor mental health has steadily taken place. Mental Health Side-Effects Some side-effects that are usually associated with poor mental health are, but not limited to: Hypertension Diabetes Cardiovascular conditions Depression Psychoses Bipolar Disorder Body aches and pains In addition, poor mental health has also led to the rise of burn-out amongst employees. Burn-out as explained by the WHO is; a “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by three dimensions: Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; Increased mental distance from one’s job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and Reduced professional efficacy. The latter phenomena dramatically hinder a person’s ability to make a positive contribution to their professional and personal lives. How to improve mental health in the workplace At Sustema, we regularly emphasize the importance of mental health and remind one another that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. This simple act alone goes a long way and helps reduce the stigma in the workplace. Other ways we try to have a positive impact on mental health include: Promoting work-life balance. Encouraging respectful behaviors, with a zero-tolerance policy for harassment. Managing workloads. Having conflict resolution practices in place. Recognizing employees’ contributions effectively. Mental Health Resources https://www.helpguide.org/find-help.htm https://www.mhanational.org/31-tips-boost-your-mental-health https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/work-life-balance/art-20048134 https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/burnout-prevention-and-recovery.htm https://www.sustema.com/post/how-ergonomics-improves-job-performance

Established in 1971, OSHA is an organization situated in the United States of America. Standing for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA is meant to provide safe and healthy work environments for employees by outlining and enforcing set standards. The program includes the necessary ongoing training and assistance for employers to successfully implement OSHA standards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is a part of the United States Department of Labor. OSHA’s official mission statement as seen on their official website is: “With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.” OSHA’s Mission in Action OSHA is primarily focused on ensuring the following for employees in the workplace; Preventing workplace injuries and accidents Providing support to employers in order to maximize ensure a safer workplace Improving employee working conditions Providing safety equipment suitable for the workspace Deterring the employers from adapting unsafe practices Empowering the employees to speak up if they feel unsafe or in harm’s way OSHA’S Vision Statement Similar to Sustema’s vision statement, OSHA places a major focus on creating safe work environments by authoring health and safety programs which are recognized globally as being some of the best. Some key programs put forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are; Health and wellness programs Vaccine campaigns Work time monitoring Sustema’s Promise to Meeting OSHA’s Standards At Sustema, we believe in empowering our clients and their employees to be their best both at and away from the workplace. All our consoles are designed in a manner which have been proven to directly improve working conditions which in turn reduces the probabilities of work-related incidents. The following are several ways in which Sustema designs their consoles in order to improve working conditions; The sit and stand feature which allows employees to raise their worksurface if they feel the need to stand. A recent study showed that those who stand at work experienced 31 percent less backpain than those who resort to sitting. Our curved edges on our worksurfaces allow for optimal comfort and have been shown to prevent discomfort and injury to the forearms, wrists, and hands. Sustema’s monitor arms come with a variety of different features which allow users to position and angle their monitors to the position that best suits them. This has been shown to promote a more ergonomic workstation which prevents neck, back, and eye injuries. Conclusion As OSHA continues to improve and implement standards that improve working conditions for millions of employees, Sustema is working responsibly to make sure that we continue to move forward in alignment with OSHA. Creating comfortable, safe, and physically rewarding consoles is something that we dearly value!

At Sustema we strongly believe in 3 core values. Dedication, innovation, and collaboration. Over the past 25 years, we’ve remained true to those very values and it has allowed us to build a reputation as being one of the leader’s in the console furniture industries. The following will touch on each of the latter qualities and will provide insight into why Sustema is so special. We are dedicated to putting forth state of the art consoles that are designed in an ergonomically consistent manner.Our relentless dedication to offering our clients top quality products means that our clients can rest assured that they will receive the highest return on investment. We are dedicated to going above and beyond our industry standards. Whether it’s by using reinforced steel in the bases of all our consoles, or conducting rigorous quality control checks, all of our clients benefit from a premium product that is backed by a lifetime warranty. Our commitment to innovation has influenced us for the past 25 years into thinking outside of the box. A key question our team of in-house designers and engineers often ask themselves is how can the work experience be more enjoyable for the end user. It is this innovative quality engraved into Sustema’s DNA that has led us to develop some of the world’s most renown workstation consoles. Take our Transit M console for example. A key feature it offers our clients is the ability to rise, thus allowing users to be able to stand while working. Standing at the workplace has been proven to offer significant benefits both physically and psychologically. From a collaboration perspective, we’re continuously implementing strategies at our own office to create a more harmonious and synergetic work environment. We believe that a great company and great products starts from within. Therefore, we at Sustema are committed to always treating one another with respect and being supportive of one another’s personal and professional growth. Whether it be our weekly book club meetings, or our monthly ping pong tournaments, creating a fun and enticing work environment leads to a heightened sense of collaboration. This in turn allows our staff to radiate positivity and enthusiasm when assisting our clients, building our consoles, or even demonstrating our products at various trade shows. Not only do we collaborate with one another, but we mostly collaborate with our customers to create the perfect work environment. One of the biggest perks why our customers love working with us, is the opportunity we give each one of them to create their own customized work environment. Imagine spending 40 hours a week in an environment constructed by you in every single detail, that's the power of Sustema's Offer. To conclude this article on “What Makes Sustema so Special”, one needs to simply look at the testimonial section of our website in order to witness the 100% customer satisfaction rate we are proud to maintain!