Hearing Loop Installation for a Modern Office Development
TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
SECTOR
TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
COVERAGE
14 rooms across 3 floors
LOCATION
LONDON
Project Overview:
We enhanced accessibility in a newly built, high-spec office development by installing advanced hearing loop systems to support individuals with hearing impairments.
Runtech supplied and installed cutting-edge hearing loop technology across 14 rooms on the top three floors, working closely with the client to align with their operational needs, user requirements, and long-term goals. This ensured a future-proof and effective solution from day one.
Partnering with Ampetronic, a leader in assistive listening technology, Runtech designed and deployed a tailored system that exceeded performance expectations and set a new standard for inclusive workplace accessibility.
Challenges & Solution Approach
Challenges:
- Providing consistent hearing coverage across rooms with varied layouts
- Preventing audio spill into neighbouring spaces
- Designing around potential magnetic field interference caused by the building’s metal structure
- Coordinating installation across multiple floors while meeting international accessibility standards such as the Equality Act
Solution Approach:
Runtech, in partnership with Ampetronic, implemented a multi-technology solution combining three complementary systems:
- Loop System – Direct audio transmission to hearing aids with T-coils for crystal clear accessibility
- Auri System – Bluetooth-enabled connectivity for smartphones and modern hearing aids without T-coils
- ListenTALK Portable System – Flexible, mobile solution for temporary or smaller rooms
Why These Systems Were Chosen
Loop System – Industry leading clarity and minimal interference, perfect for large meeting and presentation spaces.
Auri System – Unlimited Bluetooth broadcasting capability for diverse user needs.
ListenTALK Portable System – Quick-deploy, adaptable option for dynamic spaces.
Design & Coverage
We designed the system to deliver optimal hearing loop coverage across all 14 rooms while minimising audio spill into adjacent spaces. Leveraging Ampetronic’s expertise in loop field strength and interference management, we ensured precise performance and reliable assistive listening for every user.
Key design parameters:
- Target field strength: 0dB ± 3dB in optimal areas
- RMS field strength: 0.4 Am-1 for clear, reliable audio
- Spill reduction: -32dB outside rooms to preserve privac
Installation process
Our team coordinated closely with the construction contractors to align installation with flooring and finishing schedules. We delivered the project in phased stages: first fix, equipment installation, final commissioning, and system integration, while ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing building operations.
Key Results
Full Accessibility Coverage
14 rooms across 3 floors
Flexibility
Multiple systems to meet a range of accessibility needs
High-Quality Audio
High-Quality Audio
Positive Feedback
High user satisfaction and ease of use
Project Manager Interview – Jack Ansell
What was the client’s primary goal for this installation, and how did you ensure the solution met that vision?
The client’s main goal was to achieve a seamless transition from their outdated equipment to our own. By coordinating the commissioning process alongside their existing meeting room technology, we were able to deliver a system that integrated effortlessly with their daily operations and regular meeting setups.
What was the biggest technical challenge you encountered, and how did your team overcome it?
Before installation began, we identified that copper loops are incredibly fragile and must be carefully protected once in place. After the first loop was accidentally cut by an external team, we re-submitted our risk assessment to ensure all parties were aware of the loop’s presence and the delicate nature of the copper. With this heightened awareness in place, no further incidents occurred.
Why was it important to use multiple assistive listening systems rather than a single solution?
The choice of the different solutions was made during the design process to ensure the technologies could work seamlessly alongside one another. As the spaces in question are adjacent both horizontally and vertically, different solutions were required to prevent any crossover. Ampetronic’s support was extremely valuable in ensuring we could offer our client all the most suitable solutions available.
How did working alongside Ampetronic benefit the outcome of this project?
Ampetronic played a key role in ensuring that all installation methods adhered not only to Runtech’s own standards but also to recognised industry best practices. This attention to detail and compliance was crucial in delivering a high quality, reliable solution for the client.
What steps did you take to future-proof the installation for evolving accessibility needs?
We ensured that all systems were fully compatible with the client’s current AV and meeting room technology. This compatibility will allow for smooth integration of any future upgrades or changes, protecting the investment and ensuring long term usability.
What feedback did you receive from the client after completion?
The client was delighted with both the ease of use and the inclusivity the new systems provided. They appreciated how seamlessly the solution allowed all users to participate comfortably in meetings across multiple spaces.
What part of the project are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the teamwork demonstrated across every stage of this project. From logistics to sales, procurement to engineering, everyone played their part in ensuring the project ran smoothly from start to finish. The shared understanding and collaboration across departments were key to our success.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates Runtech’s ability to deliver advanced accessibility technology at scale, integrating seamlessly into a modern office environment. By combining Loop, Auri, and ListenTALK systems, we created a flexible, future ready assistive listening solution that ensures inclusivity for all building users.
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