Noise

Reducing the Impact of Noise Improves Focus and Wellbeing!

Having a sensitivity to sound causes everyday sounds to feel overwhelming or even painful for some neurodivergent people. In busy office environments, these sounds can heighten anxiety, making it difficult to concentrate or complete tasks efficiently. Constant exposure to disruptive noise may lead to sensory overload, increasing stress and over time, reduced productivity.

To alleviate challenges with auditory sensitivity, noise-cancelling headphones, ear buds, and office soundproofing solutions can be highly beneficial. These tools help create a quieter, more controlled workspace, allowing neurodivergent employees to feel better able to focus. By reducing the impact of excessive noise, these products contribute to a calmer and more productive work environment.

Noise Cancelling Headphones (over ear)

Wireless, noise cancelling headphones can make a huge difference for neurodivergent people in the workplace. By blocking out distracting background noise, they help improve focus and reduce sensory overload, creating a more comfortable environment for sustained productivity. The physical sensation of the headphones themselves can also provide a calming pressure, offering a sense of security and helping to manage anxiety, making it easier to concentrate and engage with tasks. This simple tool can significantly enhance comfort and effectiveness in busy or noisy work environments and reduce sensory overwhelm when commuting to work.

  • Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones

    EXCELLENT FOR COMMUTING

    The Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones offer a range of benefits, especially for commuters. With exceptional noise-cancelling technology, they block out ambient sounds, making travel more peaceful and focused. The long battery life of up to 30 hours ensures they can last through extended commutes or full workdays without needing frequent recharging. Their wireless design and comfortable fit make them ideal for both long journeys and daily use, while the ability to quickly switch to ambient sound mode is perfect for staying aware during conversations or announcements on the go.

  • Skull Candy Hesh ANC Noise Cancelling Headphones

    GREAT ALL-ROUNDER

    The Skullcandy Hesh ANC Wireless Headphones offer excellent value for money, with a solid combination of features suitable for work. They boast a quick charge time, delivering up to 3 hours of playback from just a 10-minute charge, ensuring minimal downtime. With effective noise cancellation and comfortable over-ear design, they provide great all-round sound quality for work tasks, whether for calls or focus. Affordable yet durable, these headphones are a practical choice for daily use, balancing price, performance, and convenience.

  • RUNOLIM Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

    GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY

    The RUNOLIM Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones offer great value for money, combining solid features with affordability. With effective noise cancellation and a built-in microphone, they are well-suited for daily use, whether for work, calls, or commuting. Their Bluetooth connectivity provides convenience, and the sleek design adds a premium feel without the premium price. These headphones deliver a well-rounded audio experience at a budget-friendly price, making them a practical choice for anyone seeking quality performance on a budget.

Noise Cancelling Ear Buds

Noise cancelling ear buds offer neurodivergent people a discreet way to reduce environmental noise, helping to improve focus and minimise sensory overload in busy work settings. Their lightweight design provides comfort without the bulk of over-ear models, while still effectively blocking out distracting sounds. This can create a calmer, more manageable atmosphere, reducing stress and anxiety. For those who prefer a less noticeable option, noise cancelling ear buds allow for greater concentration and productivity without drawing attention in professional environments.

  • JBL Live Flex 3 Wireless Bluetooth Earbud Headphones

    EXCELLENT DURABILIITY & BATTERY LIFE

    The JBL In-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones stand out with impressive battery life and exceptional sound quality. Offering long-lasting performance, they are perfect for extended use, providing hours of playback on a single charge. The noise-cancelling feature effectively blocks out distractions, enhancing the clarity and richness of audio for an immersive listening experience. Whether for commuting, work, or workouts, their high-resolution sound and waterproof design ensure durability and top-notch performance, making them a great choice for users who prioritise both battery life and sound quality.

  • Sony WF-C700N Wireless, Bluetooth, Noise Cancelling Earbuds

    GREAT ALL-ROUNDER

    The Sony Noise Cancelling Earbuds are a great all-rounder, delivering high-quality sound, effective noise cancellation, and lightweight comfort. With multi-point Bluetooth connectivity, they allow seamless switching between devices, making them perfect for work, commuting, or leisure. Their compact design ensures portability, while Sony’s renowned audio quality ensures a clear, immersive listening experience. These earbuds are versatile, offering a balance of performance and convenience, ideal for various daily activities.

  • Wireless Ear Buds

    GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY

    These Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Earbuds offer excellent value for money, combining solid sound quality, noise cancellation, and a waterproof design at an affordable price. They deliver clear audio for music, calls, and work, while the noise-cancelling feature reduces distractions in busy environments. With a comfortable fit and durable construction, they're perfect for daily use, workouts, or commuting, making them a cost-effective choice for those seeking reliable performance without the cost.

Noise Reduction Ear Buds

Noise reduction earbuds provide neurodivergent people with a subtle and comfortable way to manage distracting sounds while still allowing some external noise to filter through. This balance helps maintain focus and prevent sensory overload in busy environments, while also enabling people to stay engaged in conversations, meetings, or collaborative activities. Their compact design ensures long-wearing comfort, while still offering enough awareness of surrounding sounds for necessary interactions. Noise reduction earbuds are a practical tool for enhancing concentration and reducing anxiety, without completely isolating people from important work-related communication.

  • Loop Switch

    EXCELLENT FLEXIBILITY

    The Loop Switch Earplugs offer adjustable noise-filtering technology, making them ideal for workplace environments where managing sound levels is crucial. With multiple noise-reduction modes, people can easily switch between blocking out distracting background noise and allowing enough sound for conversations and collaboration. This flexibility helps people who are sensitive to noise, stay focused and reduce sensory overload while remaining engaged when needed. Their discreet design and customisable fit provide comfort for extended wear, making them a valuable tool for maintaining productivity and well-being in dynamic work settings.

  • Loop Engage Plus

    GREAT ALL-ROUNDER

    The Loop Engage Plus earplugs are a valuable tool for the workplace, especially for those who need to manage noise while staying engaged in conversations. Designed to filter out background noise without blocking important sounds, they help create a balanced auditory environment. This makes them ideal for meetings, where it's crucial to reduce distractions but still hear and participate in discussions clearly. By lowering the intensity of overwhelming sounds, they allow users to focus better, reduce anxiety, and remain fully present in collaborative settings. Comfortable and discreet, they are perfect for enhancing both productivity and communication in work environments.

  • Flare Calmer Noise Filtering

    GOOD ALTERNATIVE FOR ANXIETY

    The Flare Audio Calmer® Noise Filtering earplugs are an excellent option for individuals who experience anxiety in noisy environments. Designed to reduce stress-inducing high-frequency sounds without blocking out all noise, they soften sharp or sudden sounds, creating a more comfortable and manageable auditory experience. This makes them particularly useful in meetings, where background chatter or sudden noises can be distracting or anxiety-inducing. By reducing sensory overload, users can focus better on conversations while feeling calmer and more in control. Their discreet and comfortable design allows for extended wear, making them an ideal solution for staying engaged in busy or high-pressure settings like meetings.

Workplace Neuro-Inclusive Practices

Noise can be a major challenge in today’s office environments, particularly for neurodivergent employees who may be more sensitive to sensory overload. By adopting thoughtful design and flexible work policies, employers can create a more inclusive and comfortable workspace for everyone.

To reduce noise, employers can incorporate acoustic materials like sound-absorbing panels, carpets, and ceiling tiles to dampen sound and prevent echoes. Soft furnishings such as upholstered chairs also help absorb noise. In terms of layout, establishing quiet zones for focused work and separate collaboration areas for group activities can better control noise levels. Additionally, sound-dampening partitions between workstations and private workspaces or pods offer added noise control, creating a more comfortable environment for all employees.

Offering flexible options like home or hybrid work schedules can also help employees manage sensory demands throughout the week. Allowing flexible work hours means employees can commute during quieter times, reducing stress from noise. Encouraging the use of quiet meeting rooms or focus spaces for concentrated work can minimise distractions. Supporting structured routines with regular breaks from noisy areas, as well as fostering open communication about noise preferences which can further ensure a more manageable and productive work environment.

To discuss your neuro-inclusion requirements Contact ND Perspective today.

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