The control room is the epicentre of a technical setup. Ergonomics and human factor engineering play pivotal roles in the planning and design of the subject space. A foolproof system with all the elements integrated methodically will improve the efficiency, productivity, and safety of the system. Both tangible and intangible components have to be taken into consideration while pursuing control room design.

Space management is of paramount importance. It will avoid unnecessary clusters, which would impact the free movement of personnel as well as the comfortable operation of systems. The laying of cables, designing ventilation systems, arranging data systems, and so on have to be finalized after meticulous studies only. In line with that, the conditions like sound, vibration, lighting, and shade of the room have to be considered.

Procedure for Control Room Space Planning and Design

We are discussing a step-wise process for control room space planning and design. The steps we elaborate on here will prevent errors and design limitations. That may impact the performance of the team as well as the system.

Purpose

Not all organizations are the same, hence the systems. The purpose of the control room is the first thing to be looked into. All the subsequent things and decisions depend on this factor. You need to confirm the type of control room in which all control operations will be conducted. The points to note here include:

• The type of control operation intended
• Is the control room for hazardous systems
• How many personnel will be manning the room simultaneously?
• How strong is the security system that is required?

The answers to these and similar questions will give a basic idea about the design specifications and requirements of the control room space.

Consultation

Once you have a basic idea of the needs, a control room design specialist can be approached to take the project further. The meeting with the specialized control room design and development team will act as a brainstorming session. It would clarify your concerns about the control space and give the specialist a clear idea about your design requirements. The designer will forward proposed designs with specifications after the discussions. Important parts of the design include:

• Colour temperature map and lighting analysis report
• Elevation of the display wall
• Plan and other relevant drawings like console data and spatial layout
• A brief regarding the control room space specifications and operation efficiency

Consulting an expert control room planning and design team makes all the difference. They would be able to suggest many changes and effective designs. Considering their in-depth knowledge of the subject.

Atmosphere

Teamwork is the soul of every successful organization. A control room is one of the most important spaces in a firm. The staff working there should be able to communicate comfortably with each other, and the supervisor should have clear visibility of whatever is happening in the space.

• Personnel in the control space must be able to communicate comfortably with each other.
• Moving in and out of the space should be done on a convenient path. Nothing should hinder free movement.
• Operations and actions by the staff should be clearly visible to the manager or supervisor.
• What is the personnel evacuation program in case of an emergency requirement?

Lack of proper communication can lead to confusion and erroneous actions. It can also result in operational hazards. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions in this regard.

Also Read: Why Human Factor Engineering Matters In Every Workplace

Ascertainment

Having a model or specimen will reduce the confusion regarding control room space planning and design. A visit to control rooms designed by the specialized firm might be useful in this regard. It is a fact that visual ascertainment provides a clear picture of the design you can expect. The control room assistant may be asked to arrange for a visit if possible. Similarly, analytical reports on issues encountered in such control rooms may be obtained. The key points here are:

• Visit existing control rooms that are for organizations in your field.
• Case studies elaborating on issues encountered and how they were resolved

A real-time evaluation can resolve many ambiguities. It may not be possible for everyone to assume the control room space is set up just from the drawings. Even a 3D drawing may not suffice in this regard.

Productivity

The productivity of the team is the mainstay behind the success of any company. Ergonomic factors affect how a person works. The arrangement, design, shades, or sound should not cause stress or distaste. It is going to reduce output if the atmosphere in the control room is not positive. A comfortable, uncluttered arrangement with all the components placed securely is what one must look for.

• How efficient is the control room design?
• Will it provide a stress-free environment for the employees?
• Will the team get strained due to the control room design lacunae?
• Can vibrations and noises be problematic?

The workforce is the first thing to be considered while designing a control room. Their well-being can bring great success to the organization. After all, who wants to work in a stressful environment? By providing an ergonomically designed control space, you can avoid putting unwanted stress on the workers and team members.

Also Read: Aesthetix Successfully Completes Ergonomic Study & Architectural Services For Duqm Petrochemical Sites

Are you looking for control room space planning and design?

We would be happy to deliver you brilliant control room designs. Get in touch with us right away.