{
  "schema": "vedokrok.public-item.v1",
  "release_id": "MHC-RPUB-20260920-75ad787a",
  "url": "/knowledge/protect-language-heavy-work-from-intelligible-background-speech",
  "id": "MHC-D-RESEARCH-0892",
  "version": "0.1.0",
  "title": "Protect language-heavy work from intelligible background speech",
  "summary": "A voice you can parse can keep borrowing the same language system you need for the task.",
  "kind": "heuristic",
  "body": "Recent noise/cognition literature continues to identify open-plan conversational noise as a major distraction stream. For tasks such as writing, proofreading or reading, first reduce intelligible speech exposure: close a door, move location, coordinate quiet periods or use appropriate masking/headphones.",
  "limits": [
    "Noise susceptibility and hearing needs differ; headphones and masking levels should remain comfortable and safe."
  ],
  "topics": [
    "union-digital-home-office-environment"
  ],
  "intents": [],
  "source_ids": [
    "RS-83BFFC5E0263C087"
  ],
  "evidence": [
    {
      "claim": "A 2025 review identifies open-plan office acoustics and conversational noise as important streams in noise-and-cognition research.",
      "source_id": "RS-83BFFC5E0263C087",
      "role": "supports",
      "note": "Noise susceptibility and hearing needs differ; headphones and masking levels should remain comfortable and safe.",
      "locator": "See source record"
    }
  ],
  "use_when": [
    "Reading, writing or reasoning work happens beside conversations you cannot help understanding."
  ],
  "avoid_when": [
    "Noise susceptibility and hearing needs differ; headphones and masking levels should remain comfortable and safe."
  ],
  "example": "Draft specifications in the quiet room, then return to the shared space for routine coordination.",
  "check": "The acoustic environment changes with the task's sensitivity rather than staying identical all day.",
  "sources": [
    {
      "id": "RS-83BFFC5E0263C087",
      "title": "Noise and cognitive performance: mapping the research landscape",
      "url": "https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1463922X.2025.2597926"
    }
  ],
  "relations": [
    {
      "from": "MHC-D-RESEARCH-0892",
      "to": "MHC-D-RESEARCH-0465",
      "type": "useful_with",
      "url": "/knowledge/make-interruption-policy-stricter-as-cognitive-load-rises"
    }
  ],
  "collections": [
    {
      "id": "RC-112961CC8EF10888",
      "title": "Make the environment carry more of the focus load",
      "url": "/collections/make-the-environment-carry-more-of-the-focus-load"
    }
  ]
}