Production workstations must be able to withstand harsh chemicals, high temperatures and a great deal of wear and tear.
Whether a workstation is located on a factory floor, in a laboratory or in another type of industrial setting, how it is designed plays an important role in how well it stands up to the conditions around it.
There are many different designs available, from assembly production benches to packaging workstations and school laboratory furniture. Although picking which one works best for your environment depends on how it should function, there are a lot of factors that should be considered across the board, no matter the type of workstation.
Here are some do’s and don’ts you should consider when choosing the right workstation for your production.
DO Look For Proof Of Quality
You’re making a significant investment in your workspace any time you purchase a production workstation. And, if you have a sizable operation, you may be in the process of upgrading or adding several new stations.
Choosing a high-quality product is important in order to protect your long-term investment.
One of the most trusted methods of evaluating quality is to look for third-party certifications. Examples include:
- Underwriters Laboratory (UL)
- American National Standards Institute/Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (ANSI/BIFMA)
- Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA)
To be certified by one of these organizations, the furniture - or certain components of the piece like its countertop - must meet a defined set of quality and safety standards. Manufacturers must also prove that they adhere to these standards at every stage of their process, from design to production.
DON’T Encourage Poor Health
You may be asking yourself, “What does a workstation have to do with a person’s health?”
A lot!
Recent studies suggest sitting in the American workplace is a hazard to workers’ health. In fact, some have gone as far to say that sitting is the new smoking.
The health of your employees should be a top priority, since medical issues can result in a heavy cost for employers and employees to bear.
The good news is, new innovations like hydraulic adjustable workstations and benches provide a possible solution to this growing concern.
Height adjustable workstations are designed to provide tremendous flexibility to workers by allowing them to manage their environment more effectively and to reduce the risks associated with too much sitting.
They can accommodate a variety of body types and come with the tools necessary to hold workspace essentials, like keyboards, laptops and equipment. By using this type of workstation, workers may also experience less fatigue, relief from back pain problems and more overall comfort.
That’s good news for not only your employees but your bottom line, since these types of adjustments can have a positive impact on productivity.
DO Work With A Company That Customizes
If you’re not getting a workstation that meets your specific needs, the efficiency of how your space operates can take a hit.
While pre-configured designs and accessories have their advantages and are often readily available, if they don’t address how you want your manufacturing or laboratory space to function, your investment likely will turn out to not be a wise one.
After all, industrial and laboratory environments often require non-standard solutions. Working with a furniture manufacturer that customizes the size, shape and material of your production workstation is key.
A quality manufacturer will:
- Help you figure out your exact needs
- Bring your ideas to life
- Emphasize safety
- Utilize every space to the fullest
- Provide you with a product in a timely manner
Even if you are not sure you need a personalized workstation, make sure you discuss customization with your manufacturer beforehand, so you know you have the option if the need arises.
DON’T Overlook The Future
It’s easy to get tunnel vision when it comes to your present needs, but it’s also important to think about your future needs.
As mentioned above, ensuring the furniture manufacturer you work with can customize your workstation should you need it is an easy way to save money down the road.
It’s also important to consider what technology needs you may have in the future, and how those needs impact your current workstations. As technology evolves, so must your furniture.
One way to protect yourself is to make sure the workstations you choose have the ability to integrate technology, whether it’s through electrical outlets, data ports or utility ducts.
One other feature you’ll need to consider is how your production may change in the future. While your facility may not have a certain level of cleanliness requirements now, might that change down the road?
Certain countertop materials and design finishes on your workstation can impact the cleanliness level required of your space. If you anticipate your space will see an increase in the number or level of requirements, it’s better to address this issue now.
Bottom Line
How your workstation is designed plays an important role in the overall efficiency and productivity of your workspace.
Although there are many different types of workstations available on the market, it’s important to choose one that meets your current and future needs, as well as meets the highest quality standards. This will help ensure you have secured your investment in the long-run.
