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One of the challenges of managing facilities in the era of hybrid working models is managing how space is used or needed. The developers of the world’s smallest wireless sensors have launched an innovation that they believe can help.

Thanks to the pandemic, occupancy data in buildings took on a renewed importance in keeping spaces safe. FMs needed this information to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 as much as possible, by carefully monitoring cleaning schedules, ascertaining high footfall areas and knowing exactly which facilities have been used day-to-day.

As buildings began to reopen and repopulate, the need for data remains. Within commercial real estate, knowing precisely how much working space is needed, and being able to accurately plan the FM service provision around it, is essential. Particularly when the workforce continues to spread itself between the office, flexible spaces and home working.

Occupancy sensors are a way to help facilities managers maintain an accurate sense of how their buildings are being used. FMs can monitor and analyse space occupancy, property damage protection, feedback and service, cleaning, energy management, safe water, and cold monitoring through such technology.

"Desk occupancy monitoring is critical for efficient resource management," explains Bengt Lundberg, CEO of Disruptive Technologies (DT). “Our new sensor is easily installed without the need for invasive infrastructural changes or taking up valuable space. It provides real-time data on workspaces while respecting the privacy of your workforce, helping workplace and facilities managers maximise services and resources.” 

DT’s occupancy sensors use temperature measurements and machine learning to determine if a desk is occupied or not. It automatically and anonymously detects if a desk is occupied within five-ten minutes of the person arriving at the desk. Similarly, it will detect if a desk is not occupied within five-ten minutes of the person leaving. 

Monitoring has always carried a number of concerns around cost, technical integration, and most importantly, privacy and worker rights. Disruptive Technologies' new sensor eliminates those concerns. 

DT is known for its world's smallest wireless sensors, and the Desk Occupancy Sensor is truly tiny (19x19x3.5mm), with an adhesive backing to allow for a simple, 30-second, peel-and-stick, installation under any desk or table.

The sensor is placed under each desk and accurately records the occupancy status of each individual desk or table. This is done without identifying the individual or the use of cameras.

Picture: a photograph of an occupancy sensor with a QR code on it. A pencil is shown next to it for scale. Image Credit: DT

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 14 September 2022

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