A large plant's control room is the
heart of its smooth operation since it monitors and controls operations.
Due to the 24/7 nature of these
mission-critical operations, you'll need some thought put into the control room
design.
So, what are the essentials for a
good control room design?
Furniture,
staff movements, environment, safety, and budget
are all factors to consider.
Taking a closer look at these
critical aspects will help understand them better.
1.
Centralize Operations
Control room operators are
constantly communicating with one another for brainstorming and quick decision-making.
Thus, having all the teams centralized makes sense.
In addition, centralizing multiple
workstations is a good idea. Operators
can interact with multiple monitors with a single keyboard and mouse, improving
output.
2.
Minimize Foot Traffic
Employees are distracted by
movements, and security issues
may arise as a result.
The IT staff can service the equipment
from a different area to reduce foot traffic by virtualizing the PCs.
The control room should also
include a conference room. This approach tightens control staff security and
reduces movement.
3.
Design Efficient Workspaces
Workflow efficiency directly
impacts productivity. If a worker can comfortably use keyboards, monitors,
mice, and video displays, they will work better.
All operators must be able to see
what's going on at all times. Therefore, their line of sight must remain clear.
4.
Furniture in The Command Center Should Be Comfortable
Having comfortable furniture
prevents back and neck pains. You will want to adjust the console according to
the height of each employee.
Consider using modern furniture
that allows operators to stand or sit, so they do not have to sit too long at a
time.
5.
High-resolution Displays Are An Excellent Option
An operator uses incoming
information to respond effectively. So consider installing multiple high-quality
digital displays. This layout enables all operators to see the same operational
picture and effect smooth collaboration.
6.
Lighten the Room
Light affects a person's well-being,
comfort, and productivity. Keeping the room well-lit
is therefore crucial.
Optimal lighting depends on the
room's purpose. Some areas require natural lighting, while others require
artificial lighting.
7.
Think About Adjoining Rooms
Adjacent rooms often come as an
afterthought. These rooms contribute to the core business, however. Take a look
at how breakout areas, meeting rooms, and restrooms can enhance control room
functions.
8.
Design Safe Workplaces
Operators can work in a safe environment without worrying
about what could go wrong. Install alarms and keep emergency exits clear.
Ensure the room is not too crowded - keep large files,
computers, and servers in a separate room.
9.
Consider your Budget
Several factors will influence the final design, including
construction costs, hardware costs, and software costs. Keep the design to a
minimum but functional
if your budget is
limited.
Invest in scalable, flexible technology first.
Conclusion
Designing a control room can be
straightforward when you consider your operator's productivity and wellness
needs in mind from the beginning. The room should be comfortable, easy to
access, and environmentally friendly. This can also help operators to collaborate
efficiently to make decisions on time.
