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When designing a control room, cable management is often overlooked until it's too late. But in mission-critical environments like 911 dispatch centers, transit control hubs, or security operations, poor cable planning can lead to clutter, inefficiency, and even safety hazards. Here’s how to get it right from the start.   1. Start the Conversation Early Cable management and power planning should begin at the earliest stages of your control room project. Ask key questions: Where is the power coming from—floor, wall, or ceiling? This affects how cables are routed and where access points are needed. Will you be using a raised floor system? How many CPUs, monitors, phones, and radios will be integrated into each console? Count every device since each one will need power and data connectivity. How will IT staff access internal components for maintenance? IT teams need to service equipment without disrupting operations. Plan for removable panels, slide-out trays, as well as front and rear access doors for your control consoles. These questions help define the infrastructure needed to support your technology and workflow.   2. Design for Power Efficiency and Accessibility Modern control room consoles, like those from Sustema, are designed with integrated heavy-duty power bars. These are strategically placed: Inside the wall system  (e.g., 6-outlet 120V 15A bars) Underneath the worksurface Inside compartments on top of the worksurface This setup ensures that all devices are powered safely and that standard cables can be used—reducing complexity and cost. Built-in raceways  and grommets keep cables out of sight and out of the way, reducing trip hazards and visual clutter.   3. Separate Critical and Non-Critical Circuits In 911 centers, separating critical and non-critical power circuits is essential. Sustema’s system allows each receptacle to represent a single circuit, enabling clear separation. These can be integrated directly into the console’s electrical raceways or wall structures. This setup should be discussed with your IT manager, electrical engineer, and facilities team to ensure the power distribution aligns with your operational priorities. Watch account manager, Mark Meschino explain how these circuits are used to source power inside a control console. 4. Leverage Raised Floors for Flexibility Raised access flooring offers several advantages: Cleaner Workspaces : Ideal for control rooms using external server rooms, reducing visible clutter. Easy Expansion : Modular flooring can be added or removed as your space evolves. Simplified Upgrades : New cables can be run by simply lifting floor panels—no need for major renovations. Cost-Effective : These systems are often reusable and portable, making them a smart investment for growing organizations.   5. Plan for Maintenance and Growth Your cable management system should evolve with your technology. Your system should allow for: Easy access for IT maintenance Integration of future technologies Minimal disruption during upgrades A well-organized cable infrastructure ensures your control room remains efficient, safe, and adaptable for years to come. Start Your Control Room Project with Us At Sustema, we understand that every control room is unique—and so are its power and cable management needs. Whether you're building a new 911 dispatch center , upgrading an existing operations hub, or planning for future growth, our team is here to help. Contact us  today to start building a control room that meets your exact requirements.

When it comes to designing a control room, bigger isn’t always better. Many organizations—especially in public safety, utilities, and transportation—operate in facilities where square footage is limited. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on performance, comfort, or functionality. In fact, with the right layout and furniture strategy, even the smallest control rooms can be transformed into efficient, ergonomic, and future-ready workspaces.  Here are some examples of control room layouts for small spaces to help you make the most of every square foot. 1. Linear Layout: Simple, Streamlined, and Space-Saving   A linear layout places all operator consoles in a single row, typically facing a shared video wall or bank of monitors. This setup is ideal for narrow rooms or facilities with limited depth.  Why it works:   Maximizes wall space for displays  Keeps cabling and infrastructure centralized  Easy to scale by adding more stations along the line Example Installation:   A row of operator consoles arranged side-by-side in a narrow control room, designed for efficient communication and visibility. Case Study: The goal in this project was to upgrade our client’s control room with modern dispatch consoles that met a comprehensive set of strict requirements, including the use of heavy-duty technical furniture specifically engineered for mission-critical environments, provided by vendors with at least 20 years of experience in the field. The project demanded full compliance with ANSI/BIFMA x5.5-2021 certification standards, robust support and servicing capabilities, and advanced cable management solutions to minimize downtime. Additionally, the consoles needed to feature height-adjustable work surfaces with safety stop collision sensors, ergonomic finishes with Greenguard-certified materials, and integrated storage solutions for both IT equipment and personal belongings. Learn more .    2. Cockpit Layout: Immersive and Operator-Centric   The cockpit layout places consoles in a U or corner configuration, wrapping around the operator. This design is ideal for single-user or dual-user control rooms where multitasking and quick access to multiple systems are critical.  Why it works:   Reduces operator movement  Enhances situational awareness  Makes use of corner space efficiently  Example Installation: Caption: A compact control room using a corner-based cockpit layout, allowing the operator to access multiple systems with minimal movement. Case Study: In a notable case study, our team successfully executed a comprehensive project aimed at revolutionizing the Public Safety Communications Center (PSCC). The initiative involved the conceptualization, design, and manufacturing of a cutting-edge PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) center. Central to the design were five robust consoles, meticulously crafted to seamlessly integrate cable management solutions while boasting dual worksurfaces with adjustable heights to accommodate a diverse range of body sizes and operator preferences. Learn more .    Need help maximizing your existing space for a control room? Contact us.   Small control rooms come with big challenges—but also big opportunities. With the right layout and furniture strategy, you can create a space that’s not only functional but also future-proof. At Sustema, we specialize in designing control room furniture for mission-critical environments of all sizes. Whether you're working with 100 square feet or 1,000, we can help you maximize your space without compromising on performance.  Want to see more examples? Contact us  to request a portfolio of small-space control room installations.

Laminate peeling is a common issue in traditional office furniture, especially in high-use environments. But why does it happen, and more importantly, why doesn’t it happen with our control room consoles? The Problem With Ordinary Laminate Desks Laminate, often referred to as “fake wood,” is a synthetic material used to create a thin, decorative surface on furniture. While it’s popular in commercial office settings for being easy to clean and resistant to stains and warping, it has a major drawback: it peels . This peeling typically starts at the edges, especially on desks with sharp, right-angled edges where chair arms or users’ bodies frequently rub against the surface. Over time, this friction causes the laminate to lift, exposing the underlying material. Lower-quality desks made from chipboard or particle board are particularly vulnerable, especially when paired with thin or poorly bonded laminate layers. Why Our Consoles Don’t Peel Our control room consoles are engineered for durability and performance in 24/7 environments. Here’s how we prevent laminate issues: 1. Heavy-Duty Materials Unlike ordinary desks, our consoles use high-pressure laminate  bonded to MDF or steel-reinforced surfaces , ensuring a much stronger bond and resistance to wear. These materials are designed to withstand the weight and heat of IT equipment, as well as constant human interaction. Example of one of our control room consoles equipped with multiple monitor arms. 2. Urethane Edge Protection We incorporate a urethane edge  around our worksurfaces. This not only cushions the surface from bumps and scratches caused by chairs, doors, or passing operators, it also protects the laminate from peeling. The urethane edge is especially important at touchpoints where operators rest their arms or move equipment. 3. Ergonomic and Rounded Design Our consoles feature rounded edges , reducing the friction that typically causes laminate to peel. This design consideration enhances both durability and user comfort. 4. Built for Load and Longevity Our consoles are built to support significant weight. For example, the Transit console  can handle over 900 pounds across its surfaces, thanks to six 1200N actuators. This means the structure isn’t strained under the weight of monitors, arms, radios, and other equipment, reducing stress on the laminate and frame. 5. Lifetime Warranty While most office furniture comes with a short-term warranty, our consoles are backed by lifetime warranties , reflecting the confidence we have in our materials and construction. Are you renovating your control room? We can help you build a durable work environment. Laminate peeling is a symptom of furniture not designed for demanding environments. Our control room consoles are different. They’re not just desks, they’re technical furniture  built for mission-critical operations, combining ergonomic design, industrial-grade materials, and long-term reliability. If you're tired of replacing peeling desks or dealing with maintenance issues, it might be time to upgrade to a solution built for mission critical environments. Contact us  to know how we can help you.

When it comes to outfitting a control room—whether for a 911 dispatch center, security operations center, or utility monitoring hub—most decision-makers focus on the obvious: price tags, lead times, and aesthetics. But what often gets overlooked are the hidden costs  that can quietly drain your budget and compromise performance over time.  If you're planning a control room upgrade or building one from scratch, here are five hidden costs you should be aware of—and how to avoid them.    1. Inadequate Ergonomics = Long-Term Health Costs   Control room operators often work 8, 12, or even 24-hour shifts. If the furniture isn’t ergonomically designed, it can lead to chronic fatigue, musculoskeletal disorders, and increased absenteeism. These health issues not only affect employee well-being but also lead to higher insurance claims and reduced productivity.  What to watch for:   Consoles that don’t support sit-stand functionality  Chairs not rated for 24/7 use  Lack of adjustability in monitor arms or work surfaces  Pro tip:  Look for furniture that complies with ANSI/HFES 100 standards and is specifically engineered for mission-critical environments.    2. Limited Customization = Workflow Disruptions   Every control room is unique. A one-size-fits-all solution might seem cost-effective at first, but it can lead to inefficiencies in daily operations. If your team has to work around the furniture instead of with it, you’ll likely face workflow bottlenecks and frustration.  What to watch for:   Consoles that can’t be reconfigured as your team grows  Lack of integration with your existing technology or equipment  Poor sightlines between operators and video walls  Pro tip:  Choose a vendor that offers modular, scalable designs and provides layout planning services to ensure the furniture supports your operational flow. Our consoles feature modular designs to future proof your control center.    3. Poor Cable Management = Downtime & Maintenance Costs   In a mission-critical environment, downtime is not an option. Yet, poor cable management can lead to overheating, accidental disconnections, and time-consuming troubleshooting. It also creates safety hazards and makes future upgrades more difficult.  What to watch for:   Consoles without integrated cable raceways or access panels  Exposed wiring that’s vulnerable to damage  No separation between power and data lines  Pro tip:  Ask for a demo of the cable management system before you buy. Well-designed consoles will have hidden, organized pathways that make maintenance easy and safe. We can give you a virtual showroom tour so you can see how our consoles handle cable management.    4. Cheap Materials = Shorter Lifespan   Furniture that looks good on day one may not hold up under the demands of a 24/7 environment. Low-cost materials can warp, chip, or degrade quickly, leading to frequent repairs or full replacements—costing you more in the long run.  What to watch for:   Melamine or particleboard surfaces instead of high-pressure laminate (HPL)  Weak structural frames or plastic components  Short or limited warranties  Pro tip:  Always ask about the materials used and request durability testing data. A slightly higher upfront investment in quality materials can save thousands over the furniture’s lifecycle. We manufacture our consoles using heavy-duty materials to resist the constant wear and tear of a mission critical environment.    5. Installation & Shipping Surprises   It’s not uncommon for vendors to quote a base price that doesn’t include delivery, installation, or on-site adjustments. These “extras” can add up quickly—especially if your facility has special access requirements or needs after-hours installation.  What to watch for:   Quotes that don’t include freight or handling  No mention of white-glove installation or technician support  Hidden fees for on-site modifications or delays  Pro tip:  Request a fully itemized quote that includes shipping, installation, and any potential contingencies. Clarify whether the vendor handles everything or if you’ll need to coordinate with third-party installers.    We can help you plan your next control room project.   Buying control room furniture is a significant investment—not just in dollars, but in the performance and well-being of your team. By understanding and planning for these hidden costs, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure your control room is built to last.  At Sustema, we specialize in high-performance control room furniture designed for 24/7 environments. Want to make sure you're asking the right questions? Contact  one of our design specialists to get started with your project.

About the client Our client is a pivotal organization dedicated to managing and coordinating multi-agency responses to emergencies and disasters within their jurisdiction. They play a crucial role in alerting and notifying appropriate agencies when disaster strikes, ensuring that resources are available and mobilized during large-scale incidents. Their responsibilities include developing comprehensive preparedness plans and procedures for effective response and recovery, as well as providing essential materials to the public to enhance community readiness. Additionally, they oversee the Emergency Operations Center, a facility that ensures coordinated emergency response during significant incidents, and maintain a strong partnership with state-level emergency management. Their support extends to local emergency management, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and fire agencies, making them an indispensable asset in times of crisis. About the project The project involved the construction of a backup 9-1-1 communications center designed to enhance operational efficiency and privacy for telecommunicators. This facility required 21 ergonomic workstations, ensuring comfort and productivity for each operator. The design prioritized ease of IT maintenance, allowing for seamless updates and troubleshooting without disrupting critical emergency services. Additionally, the layout fostered a sense of privacy for telecommunicators, enabling them to perform their duties with minimal distractions. This comprehensive approach aimed to support the client's mission of providing reliable and effective emergency communication services. About the solution Our client chose our ACCESS control console , because it met their specific requirements for their new backup 9-1-1 communications center. The 21 ergonomic workstations would be arranged in six groups of three linear consoles and three single standing stationary consoles. Each workstation needed to be equipped with height-adjustable worksurfaces, retractable integrated monuments , raised and lockable CPU enclosures  with front and rear access, and LCD monitor arms mounted on the surface. The heavy-duty construction ensures mission-critical 24/7 operation, with safety features such as smooth edges and cutting-free parts. The workstations are designed with high-density particle board surfaces covered with high-pressure laminate and reinforced with a heavy-duty substructure for durability. The frames are made from cold-rolled steel and aluminum extrusions, capable of supporting up to 1200 lbs. The lifting system includes HD motors with anti-collision features, adjustable height, and an LED keypad for easy adjustments. CPU storage units are integrated into the frame, providing ample knee and leg room, ventilated bases, and programmable fans for optimal air circulation. Cable management is integrated throughout the system, with chains to protect cables during height adjustments and provisions for managing excess cable lengths. Separator panels made of frosted glass or plexiglass provide privacy, while monitor arms  support multiple monitors with adjustable, rotating, and tilting capabilities, ensuring maximum flexibility and clutter-free cabling. This comprehensive solution not only meets the client's operational needs but also enhances the efficiency, safety, and comfort of telecommunicators in the backup 9-1-1 communications center. Conference table Our client also required a technology conference table , which incorporated the same technology integrations as the dispatcher consoles. The proposed conference table for the backup 9-1-1 communications center is designed to accommodate eight users and match the color and finishes of the console workstations. Measuring 106” x 48”, the table features a high-density particle board worksurface covered with high-pressure laminate and equipped with urethane edging for durability and safety. The frame is constructed from 10 gauge cold-rolled steel with a charcoal powder coat finish or aluminum extrusions, ensuring a weight load capacity of 750 lbs. The table includes a retractable integrated dual-sided monument and an advanced cable management system, providing lateral and vertical cable management capabilities. Hinged doors on both sides and ventilated shelves ensure efficient IT equipment ventilation. The heavy-duty construction is designed for mission-critical 24/7 operation, with smooth edges to prevent any sharp or cutting parts, ensuring user safety. Storage solution The custom storage solution  includes an IT storage credenza and conference room file storage credenzas tailored to the specific needs of the users. The IT storage credenza measures 120” W x 24” D x 29” H and is designed to support documentation and IT servicing equipment, featuring four sliding drawers and four open shelves. It matches the surface and base colors of the consoles. Additionally, four conference room file storage credenzas, each measuring 36” W x 24” D x 29” H, are required to support training documentation. These credenzas include two pull-out drawers and are designed to match the surface and base colors of the conference table and consoles, ensuring a cohesive and functional workspace. About the result The installation of our control room furniture has significantly enhanced the working environment for both the staff and the organization. The ergonomic workstations, equipped with height-adjustable surfaces and retractable integrated monuments, provide comfort and flexibility, reducing physical strain and promoting better posture. This leads to increased productivity and less burnout among operators, as they can adjust their workstations to suit their individual needs throughout their shifts. The heavy-duty construction and thoughtful design ensure that the workstations are safe and durable, free from sharp edges and cutting parts, which contributes to a safer work environment. The integrated cable management system and organized CPU storage units help maintain a clutter-free workspace, allowing operators to focus on their tasks without distractions. The privacy panels and adjustable monitor arms create a sense of personal space, enabling operators to work more efficiently and with greater concentration. The conference table and custom storage solutions further support the organization by providing dedicated spaces for documentation, IT equipment, and training materials, ensuring that everything is easily accessible and well-organized. Overall, the new control room furniture meets all the requirements and provides tangible benefits such as enhanced comfort, improved productivity, reduced burnout, and a more organized and efficient workspace for the operators. This comprehensive approach not only supports the staff in performing their duties effectively but also contributes to the overall mission of the organization in managing and coordinating emergency responses. Transform Your Control Room with Our Expertise Experience the benefits of a well-designed control room that enhances comfort, productivity, and efficiency. Our ergonomic workstations, advanced cable management systems, and custom storage solutions create an organized and safe environment for your operators. Let us help you build a control room that meets your unique needs and supports your mission. Reach out to us  today to start designing your ideal workspace.

The interaction of human factors, source WorkSafeBC Ignoring human factors in control room design has terrible consequences. There are social and economic consequences, like musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and high turnover rate. Designing an ergonomic workplace results in improved employee well-being and enhanced control room performance. What are human factors? Unnoticed, the discipline of human factors has influenced how large organizations create the workspaces for their employees. It began in the US military during the 1960s , when after a number of airplanes crashes, they figured out that the way the cockpit was designed did not support the capabilities of a human body. They discovered the problem was that the pilot could not reach the systems needed to operate because the cockpit was designed for a very large person and then when they put a shorter pilot inside, they couldn’t reach the same systems. Today, human factors specialists make sure that a control room (and any other workplace for that matter) is moulded to the needs of the person who works there. But it’s a lot more than making sure nodes and switches are within reach. The terrible consequences of poor ergonomics in 911 centers. Results of a 2023 nationwide 911 staffing survey reveals that stress is one of the major reasons why telecommunicators and emergency dispatchers reported leaving the profession. A workplace that is not ergonomic contributes to fatigue, increases workplace injuries and causes telecommunicators to lose focus easily. Stress can be caused by many things, one of them is a poorly designed workspace, which results in workplace MSDs. A workplace that is not designed to accommodate the human body can result in catastrophic consequences, especially when the stakes are too high, as is the case in PSAPs. As an example, In the U.S., upper extremity MSDs and low back pain are the most prominent occupational injuries and illnesses. MSDs account for almost one-third (31%) of all occupational injuries and illnesses in the U.S. and incur a median of nine days absence from work. When one telecommunicator is absent, others are required to pick up the slack. This can result in a situation where the control room is perpetually understaffed. Implications in Canada and the USA In Canada and the USA, upper extremity MSDs and low back pain are the leading causes of disabling work-related injuries. Evidence suggests that the leading cause of occupational injuries in the U.S. is forceful exertions or over-exertions. In other, words that is when operators have to go out of their way to complete a simple but recurring task, every single day. To address these issues, organizations that require control rooms, like power generation corporations and air traffic control centers employee an in-house specialist on human factors and well-being, whose job is to ensure the control room is moulded to the needs of the person who work there. One survey respondent answered that: “it is very hard to retain employees because of the stress of the job and the low level of pay.” Today, agencies are using various strategies to fill the gaps left by vacancies, like increasing the pay for 911 professionals, improving retirement and other benefits, etc. But attracting new employees can be difficult even with improvements in benefits because of the center’s location and working conditions. While the center’s location is a lot harder to change, the working conditions inside it are much easier to address. How to optimize the control room with human factors Human factors is a lot more than making sure nodes and switches are within reach. It’s mainly about making sure the employees don’t lose focus. The human is able to sustain best optimal attention for about 30 minutes (that is if it is sustained) after that, it starts to degrade. For example, in mission critical environments like air traffic control centers, controllers work in 45 to 60 intervals of time before taking a break. This is because the maximum limit on air controllers is accepted to be 90 minutes , but it is very rare that someone will go up to that. Telecommunicators, regardless of their level of experience, benefit from a control room layout where the supervisor has a line of sight to the consoles they are in charge of. So, if someone struggles, they can ask for relief so the room is arranged to facilitate that. At the center everything is geared towards the controllers being able to do this core work safely and efficiently over the span of days weeks and years. When designing a new control room, it is important to gather feedback from stakeholders throughout the organization. In 911 centers, as is the case with other mission critical environments, there are strict rules and procedures, which everyone must follow. It is up to each organization to determine what these are. Human factor specialists study the ways in which workers and the workplace can clash. They make sure everything about the control room has been engineered to minimize human error. At Sustema we can help you design and build a control room that adapts to the needs of your organization, contact us to get started.

At the same time our tradeshow in North Carolina was taking place, the Maine NENA conference was also happening. So, after a long drive and after a proper night’s sleep, Derek got to the Double Tree where the show was going to take place. Like all tradeshows, this one started early. So, after having breakfast and making sure the booth was ready to receive the roughly 160 people attending the conference, Derek made sure to greet with new and old faces. Attending this show was a good opoprtunity for Sustema because in Maine there are about 25 PSAPs serving a population fo 1.4 million people. So, we had the chance to meet and discuss with 9-1-1 directors from all over the state of Maine. This conference has a lot of potential for NENA members to attend, and the networking opportunities are pretty good. Despite being a small regional conference, it is extremely important for us to be present and meet with decision makers and stakeholders in the state of Maine. Attending this conference helps us to stay up to date with current industry needs and showcase Sustema’s workstations and capabilities to 9-1-1 directors who are looking to upgrade their center. These types of events are also a great oppportunity for us to learn more about how PSAPs are adapting to the evolving needs of telecommunicators. If you missed us at the Maine NENA conference, you can contact us right here.

May has been a particularly busy month here at Sustema. We had no less than 4 tradeshows simultaneosly. The first one was the North Carolina Public Safety Communications Conference in Wilmington. On Sunday, after a short flight, a couple of snacks and an even shorter drive, your account manager Louis arrived at his hotel to rest after travelling for the whole day. The streets were quiet at that hour, so it was easy for him to relax and prepare for the tradeshow the next day. Since the show started early on Monday, with the registration desk opening at 7 am, Louis had just enough time to get everything ready to greet people at the Sustema booth, which was booth number 619, in case you were wondering. After a quick and small breakfast, and saying hi’s and hello’s to some familiar faces, the tradeshow finally began with a lovely buffet lunch where exhibitors and attendees could get to know each other without a lot of pressure. Once lunch was finished, Louis headed back to the Sustema booth because there was a vendor speed dating event, which was a fun experience, because only decision makers walk around the show and chat for 2 minutes at each booth. This allowed us to connect with new industry stakeholders in the state, and was a great initiative on the part of the organizers. As you would expect, the tradeshow continued for a couple of hours more, at a more relaxed pace of course. But still, this show was a great event for Sustema as it helped us solidify existing relationships and discover new growth oportunities.  We got to meet in person past and current clients, because no matter how convenient video calls are, meeting face to face is always better. At this point the show still had another day to go, but that was only a couple of hours. So, after meeting some more people on the next day, it was finally time to pack our banners and head back home. However, that wasn’t the end of the May-tradeshow-fest, at the same time, in another conference center, in another Sustema booth, another tradeshow was taking place… If you missed us at the North Carolina Public Safety Communications Conference in Wilmington, you can contact us right here.

In the fast-paced environment of control rooms, where dispatchers and telecommunicators work tirelessly to ensure public safety, the importance of an ergonomic workstation cannot be overstated. Proper setup of your chair, monitor, keyboard, mouse, phone, lighting, and desk accessories, along with regular breaks and training, can prevent physical strain and enhance your ability to perform your duties effectively. This blog post will guide you through the essential steps to create an ergonomic workstation, combining insights from two valuable sources. Adjust Your Chair To ensure your chair provides optimal support and comfort, it must adjust to your body and mold to your shape, allowing you to maintain a flat back while seated. Begin by bringing the chair to a neutral position. Raise the height of the chair to its maximum setting. Sit down and adjust the seat height until your heels are firmly on the ground and the pressure under your thighs has disappeared. Engineering laboratory control room for Kinectrics Next, adjust the seat depth to its minimum setting and raise the backrest height to its maximum. Once seated, adjust the backrest until it stops by itself as it comes into contact with your lower back. It should stop where you feel the maximum pressure, ensuring comfort and support without hollowing your back or causing you to slouch. For taller users, block the backrest and calibrate the pressure felt in the lower back. If there is too much pressure or excessive space behind the knees, move the seat forward by one click. Check the pressure again. If it is still too high, move the seat forward by another click. If the pressure decreases too much, move the seat back by one click to find the correct position for the user. Next, let's adjust the armrests of your chair. Relax your neck and position the armrests so that they support your forearms when bent at a 90-degree angle. Ensure they are available for support when needed, but not obstructing your movements Position Your Monitor Your monitor should be at arm's length, with the top of the screen at eye level. This setup prevents eye strain and encourages a neutral posture. Tilt the screens so that the image is facing you, similar to how you read a book. If you use multiple monitors, align them so that you are centered between them. For two rows of monitors, ensure the edges of both rows are at eye level to minimize neck movement. Screen Height Monitors should be positioned below the horizontal line originating from your eyes, approximately 10 degrees below. Tilt the screens to face you directly, similar to reading a book. Screen Depth Monitors should be positioned at a 20-inch distance from the operators. Approximately at arm length. 911 backup emergency center with 2 rows of monitors Mind Your Mouse and Keyboard To ensure your workspace is ergonomic and comfortable, place your keyboard where your hands naturally rest and position your mouse next to it. Keep your neck relaxed and move from your elbow rather than your shoulder to prevent strain. Aim for a 20-degree range of motion, both forwards and sideways, to cover the tools you use most frequently. Beyond this 20-degree range, place the tools you use less often. Avoid reaching for your tools; instead, keep them within easy reach to maintain a comfortable posture, but not in the way of the most used items like the keyboard and mouse. Layout of a control console Beyond shoulder reach, place items you use even less frequently. If you have accessories, put them where there is space. For example, a left-handed operator can place their notepad on the left, while a right-handed operator can use it as a mousepad. Keep the pen close by, so you either have the mouse or the pen in your right hand. If you use paper documents just for reading, they can be placed between the screen and the keyboard. Position Your Phone Place your phone on your non-writing side to avoid cradling it with your shoulder, which can lead to neck pain. In control rooms like PSAPs, emergency dispatchers often use headsets to keep their hands free for typing and writing. 911 telecommunicator with headset Adjust Your Worksurface To ensure your workspace is ergonomic and comfortable, it is crucial to adjust the worksurface to the correct height. The worksurface should be placed at a height where your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle. First, relax your shoulders. Bend your elbows at 90 degrees and stretch your fingers. The position of your fingertips is where the keyboard should be. Move towards the desk and raise the desk until the keyboard touches your fingertips. This adjustment applies to both sitting and standing positions. Adjustable control console, side section view An alternative method is to raise the worksurface higher than needed with your hands resting at the keyboard’s position. This will create a pressure line on the edge of the desk where it touches your arm. Lower the surface until the pressure line disappears, indicating the worksurface is at the right height. Then, make micro adjustments depending on the thickness of the keyboard. Additional Elements for a proper control console setup Lighting Proper lighting is essential to reduce eye strain and maintain focus. Ensure your workstation is well-lit. Use task lighting to illuminate your work area without causing glare on your screens; the light should come from the sides. Note that in some centers, operators prefer to work without overhead lighting and use task lights only when reading documents. Task light for heavy duty use. Breaks and Movement Encourage regular breaks and movement to prevent stiffness and fatigue. Implement a schedule that allows for short breaks every hour to stretch and move around. This practice can significantly improve your overall health and productivity. Training and Awareness Provide training and raise awareness about the importance of ergonomics among control room operators. Educate them on the best practices for setting up their workstations and the benefits of maintaining an ergonomic environment. We can help you create an ergonomic workspace for control room operators By following these ergonomic guidelines and incorporating additional elements, control room operators can create a workspace that promotes comfort and efficiency. Remember, an ergonomic workstation is not just about comfort; it's about ensuring you can work at your best, day in and day out. Contact us  if you have any questions or need further assistance in setting up your control room workstation!

Applying cable management techniques doesn’t have to be an obstacle. Modern control consoles integrate a variety of systems to make it easier for control centers to keep their IT equipment up to date. Cables can hinder operations when they are not properly managed, causing downtime, and even accidents since they are dangling below the worksurface and they can get caught while the console is in movement. Cable chains : 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. These cable chains can be placed on a focal adjustment accessories so that operators can adjust their monitors’ depths. Electrical raceways : these pathways help secure cables by dividing them according to their voltage. Power and data cables can suffer from electromagnetic interference when paired together, especially if there are a lot of them. And in a control console there are lots of cables running to and from the CPU. Monitor arms routing : one way to achieve a clean look in a control console is to route cables along the monitor arms . This can be done with tie-wraps, monitor clamps or even velcro straps. All the way to the grommet holes and connecting to power bars below, or running down through cable chains. The amount of monitor arms will determine how many cables you can run through them. Grommet holes : Grommet holes are made to manage cables from keyboards, mouses, and other equipment to reduce clutter on the worksurface. Grommet holes can also be adapted to integrate fans as a cooling system for operators. But they can also be placed next to monitor posts so that the cables don’t have to travel behind the worksurface. Power bars : Underneath the worksurface, power cables coming from monitors and other accessories are routed through the surface frame, and connect to a power bar attached to the steel substructure. Front and Rear access doors : for control consoles having easy access to IT equipment makes it easy to perform maintenance tasks while minimizing downtime. Access doors can be placed on the front of the console for personal storage and CPU enclosures. But they can also be placed on the back of the consoles, so that the IT specialists can access the CPUs and other equipment. These doors are made out of steel and are also lockable with steel hinges. Slide-out trays : Consoles with slide-out trays make efficient use of space in the control room. They also allow centers to keep cables neatly organized and also keep their equipment safe. Does your control console have all of these cable management features? In the fast paced world of emergency centers, organized control consoles can empower their opertors with clutter free wotksurfaces and technology integrations. Contact us to learn how you can implement these features into your control room.

In the fast-paced environment of modern control rooms, situational awareness is crucial for operators to make quick and accurate decisions. One innovative solution that is gaining traction is the use of LED lights integrated into control room consoles in favour of status lights. In this entry we explore how situational awareness is enhanced through LED lighting and the benefits it brings to operators. Identifying Stations and Status One of the primary benefits of using LED lights for situational awareness is the ability to easily identify stations and their status. For example, 9-1-1 dispatchers and supervisors can quickly see who is on the radio or who is not, replacing traditional status lights with more versatile LED indicators. This immediate visual cue helps streamline communication and ensures that everyone is aware of the current operational status. Customizable Colors for Enhanced Clarity When the colors are not assigned to a specific status, console operators can pick and choose their own colors, allowing for a highly customizable workstation. But these color choices can be integrated with environment controls. For instance, syncing the LED lights to heaters or cooling fans can provide instant feedback on the environmental conditions: red for heating and blue for cooling. This customization enhances clarity and reduces the chances of misinterpretation. Versatile Integration and Control LED lights can be integrated into various parts of the console, including under the surface and within glass panels. Providing ample coverage for large control rooms. Operators can control these lights from a small display on the console surface, making it easy to adjust settings without disrupting their workflow. Additionally, lights can be activated via buttons, offering a straightforward analog system that is both reliable and user-friendly. Benefits for Operators The integration of LED situational awareness lights into control room consoles offers several key benefits for operators: Improved Communication : Operators can quickly identify the status of different stations and equipment, reducing the time spent searching for information. Customizable Settings : Operators can tailor the lighting system to their preferences, improving comfort and efficiency. Environmental Feedback : Syncing lights with heaters and cooling fans provides immediate feedback on environmental conditions, helping maintain optimal working conditions. Want to light-up your control room operations? We can help. LED situational awareness lights are a powerful tool for modern control rooms, offering improved visibility, enhanced communication, and customizable settings that benefit operators. By integrating these lights into control room consoles, we can create a more efficient and responsive working environment that meets the demands of today's fast-paced operations. Contact us to get started with your project.

Choosing the right control console for a control room involves answering two key questions:  What type of technology do you need at your center?  and  What does the space of your center look like?  This principle applies to all industries where mission-critical environments are used. Answering these questions will help project managers and planners meet operator comfort and comply with the latest accessibility and ergonomic standards. Understanding the Technology Requirements CPU Requirements : Determine how many CPUs you need. Some control rooms use remote servers, but most PSAPs and other emergency communications centers still rely on local CPUs stored at the dispatcher’s console. Sustema consoles  feature all-steel CPU enclosures with perforated steel sliding trays. These can be oriented to pull the CPU towards the front or back of the console. CPU enclosures can be located in the middle or at the extremes of the console, allowing multiple CPUs inside the workstation. You can also integrate a box-box-file for stationary items and additional storage. CPU enclosures for control room consoles by Sustema. Monitor Configuration : Assess the number and size of monitors. Whether you have a single row of four 24-inch monitors or larger configurations, Sustema control consoles can accommodate various setups. Monitors can be mounted on fixed monitor posts, a slat-wall system, or a monitor focal adjustment array, which offers additional cable management support. Additional Technology : Consider other tech incorporated into the console, such as phones, radios, and touchpads. Electrical Certifications : When selecting CPUs and other electronic components for your control console, it's crucial to ensure they meet relevant electrical certifications  such as UL, CSA, and CE. These certifications guarantee the safety and reliability of the equipment. Understanding the Space Requirements Power Source : Identify where your power is coming from—raised floor, wall, or ceiling. This will affect the console layout. Room Obstacles : Consider any permanent structures like pillars or columns that may impact the console placement. User Capacity : Determine how many users will be in the room at any one time to calculate the required number of consoles. Traffic guidelines : Consider foot traffic when planning passageways : zero traffic areas need no passageways, low traffic areas need narrow ones, moderate traffic areas require wider passageways, and high traffic areas need the widest passageways for frequent access. Departmental Needs : Assess the needs of different departments (e.g., police, fire, ambulance, call-taking, dispatch) and the proximity of supervisors to these departments. Building a New Control Room? We Can Help. No matter which industry you are in, choosing the right control console involves understanding both the technology and space requirements of your control room. By considering these factors and tailoring the setup to your specific industry needs, you can create an efficient and ergonomic mission-critical environment. Whether you're in public safety, power generation, surveillance, oil and refineries, professional trading, air traffic control, or government agencies, we can assist you throughout the process to ensure your control room meets all your operational needs. Reach out to us for expert guidance and support in building your new control room.