Managing essential services like electricity, water, and gas is critically important work and utilities control room consoles are at the heart of this. These consoles are not just workstations but advanced hubs equipped with ergonomic designs, next-generation displays, and integrated technology to streamline workflows. Utilities control rooms manage the efficiency and safety of vital infrastructure services. The consoles within them serve as the command centre for operators overseeing power generation, distribution, and consumption. They are made to a higher specification than standard office furniture because they need to withstand 24/7 use and integrate customised IT equipment.

What are the key features of a utilities control room console?

1. Ergonomic Design

• Height adjustability: Sit-stand desks allow you to alternate between sitting and standing while working. This reduces strain on the body and helps prevent fatigue.7

• Monitor Arms: Flexible monitor arms enable you to adjust screens for optimal viewing angles, minimising neck and eye strain.

• Task chairs: A specialised ergonomic chair provides robust support for your back. Its design is more comfortable and durable than a standard office chair, essential for 24/7 use.

     2. Advanced Display Technologies

• Ultra-wide and curved screens: These provide a seamless visual field that allows operators to monitor multiple systems simultaneously. Utilities control room consoles increasingly have a curved design to accommodate these curved displays.

• Specialist monitor arms: Utility control room operators use multiple screens, so a robust monitor arm is essential. A post-mounted monitor arm allows you to adjust monitor height finely. You can also easily add and remove monitors.

• High-Resolution displays: Clarity is essential for interpreting critical data; modern screens support 4K and even 8K resolutions.

3. Sustainability and Durability

• Eco-friendly materials: Utilities control room consoles are increasingly made with recyclable and low-impact materials. For example, using recycled aluminium and steel reduces the need for virgin materials, saves resources, and reduces carbon emissions.

• Long-lasting design: Investing in high-quality, durable furniture might initially seem pricier, but it’s actually more economical in the long run. Cheaper desks will not stand up to 24/7 use and might need replacing several times over ten years. A higher-spec option can last a decade or more, cutting both costs and environmental impact.

• Local manufacturing: Global shipping is a major contributor to climate change. Locally manufactured consoles involve fewer emissions and less energy use for transportation.

Which console is right for your control room?

Single Surface Console

Single surface consoles have one desktop for both the keyboard and monitors. It provides a large, usable work surface with ample space for equipment, and the desktop height can be fixed or adjustable. If the console is height adjustable, it’s easy to reposition it between sitting and standing as the whole surface moves with the touch of a button. Fixed single surface consoles offer a cost effective solution for your control room.

Dual Surface Console

A dual surface control room console has two desktops, one is the main workspace for users, and a second desktop supports monitors. Having two desktops offers many benefits. Both surfaces are usually height adjustable, which is great for comfortable working as you can set your preferred height on each surface. You can easily adjust the control room workstation for either sitting or standing. A separate desktop for monitors allows greater flexibility in the number of screens supported. Dual surface consoles offer great functionality and ergonomics, making them ideal for users who spend long shifts at their control room desks. The level of adjustment is also helpful when different users share the same desk.

Utilities control room console buying process

1. Consultation

The control room manufacturer can visit your site to discuss your requirements. They can help decide the most suitable desk type and size, IT storage, desktop connectivity and monitor mounting. 

You can also visit a showroom to see the desks. Here you can check out the different prices and options to see which suits your requirements best.

At Technology Desking, we offer free consultations to help you with the decision-making process.

2. A questionnaire to find out your needs

The manufacturer should send you a comprehensive list of questions to understand your requirements fully. This will cover topics such as your equipment needs, how many monitors you use, and desk size. Once the questionnaire is complete they can provide a quote.

3. We create a 3D visual

Once the designers receive the brief, they can create a 3D visual of the furniture in your workspace. This visual lets you and your team review the desk design and finishes before manufacturing. In addition, it allows you to ask questions or state any modifications you might need.

4. Design and manufacture

After a purchase order is approved, the manufacturer will begin the design process. The designers will produce a technical drawing with the measurements and specifications needed to manufacture the desk.

5. Installation

Before installation begins, the manufacturer should work with you to plan the project. A project manager can visit your site to help prepare. They will check floor access and help determine when the floor will be ready for the desk installation.

Looking to upgrade your utilities control room? Technology Desking have over 30 years of experience in manufacturing control room furniture. We have fitted out control rooms for major energy suppliers in the UK and overseas. Our consoles have 10-year warranties, and we offer ongoing customer support. We work with you to customise utilities control room consoles to your unique requirements. Ergonomic design and efficient technology management are our core principles. Take a look at our products here