Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations are locations where personnel perform work. Many different types of products are available. Desks, tables, counters, stands, and booths include drawers or other storage compartments. They provide a flat, smooth tabletop or a molded surface for mounting equipment. Assembly or test benches also have storage areas, but for electronic devices or instrumentation. Specialized benches for the fabrication of electric and electronic components are also available. Economy workbenches are made of relatively light-weight materials and offer fewer features than heavy-duty models. Workstations for clean rooms, laboratories, personal computers (PCs), and local area networks (LANs) are commonly available. Modular products that are designed for office environments are available in a range of colors, sizes, and styles. Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations that feature ergonomic designs can improve worker efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Packaging workstations are used to hold and present materials for product packaging.
Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations vary in terms of length, width, height load capacity, and surface type. Typically, dimensions such as length, width, and height are measured in inches (in) or centimeters (cm). Capacity is usually measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg). Some work surfaces are made from hardwoods such as maple, or built from wood products and then laminated or covered with a plastic or melamine surface. Other work surfaces are made from steel and coated with paint. Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations that are made from wood and then laminated or covered with a separate wood surface are also available. For applications such as the assembly of electrical equipment or electronic devices, work surfaces often provide protection from electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations provide many options and features. Examples include lights, foot rests, keyboard trays; storage bins, cabinets, and drawers; and electrical outlets and strips. Back racks are used to hang tools or supplies while tack boards are suitable for hanging documentation and personal effects. Tilting and adjustable work surfaces can be angled, raised, and lowered. Industrial workbenches and industrial workstations with built-in casters or wheels can be moved between locations. For products that need to support heavier loads, special plates called stringers are used for added stability. Sanitary workbenches and workstations meet cleanliness requirements from regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Corner or curved workstations are designed for placement in corners, or to form a corner for the work surface.
