Storage & Shelving

Choosing Storage Buying Guide

It may seem obvious, but the first thing to think about when looking to buy storage for your workplace is what you plan to store. This above all else should dictate your next step. For example, although a full-height cupboard is pretty much ubiquitous in any workplace because of its flexibility, it would certainly not be the first choice for storing loose hand tools or small parts. Likewise, a drawer unit would be useless for holding large boxes. Consider the quantities that need to be housed as well.

Think also about your available space, what you need to do in it and how best to marry the two together. Would a wall cupboard be better than a freestanding one? Will windows necessitate using half-height cabinets?

Wherever space permits, buy furniture that offers slightly more capacity than is needed immediately or choose storage, such as shelving, that is part of a modular system which can be easily added to. Could you cope with your current level of storage if you suddenly became busy?

Finally, at this stage it’s a good idea to look at all of the furniture in your workplace and decide whether replacing or updating it could assist in your operations. Many workbenches can be fitted with additional storage including cupboards, shelves and panels. Would this element of personal storage for regularly used items streamline operations further?

Considering all of these factors will ensure you make the right purchase for you and your location. As one of the basic elements of design, having the correct storage in place will have an immeasurable impact on every part of your day to day operations. Start with storage and the rest will follow.

FAQs

How can I ensure I’m organised?

By its very nature, storage in any form will help organise your workplace. It’s simply a question of size and scale. A large cupboard can be used to hold bulk stock while small parts storage such as plastic bins and boxes are purpose built for separating components or consumables. A good tip is to colour co-ordinate your storage. For example, red cabinets and containers could be used for hardware and power tools whilst yellow could hold electrical elements. This can make finding items much quicker and works within LEAN and 5S principles to improve efficiency.

What other items might I need to make the most of my space?

Once you have your storage in place it’s time to think about how stored goods are going to move around your space. Items such as trucks and trolleys are always useful. It’s possible that new storage will necessitate some other changes taking place in your work areas. Workbenches and stations might need to be updated, and refreshed signage to convey safety information will likely be required if operations have changed dramatically. To complete the process new flooring or matting should also be considered.

In offices and other areas such as receptions you might prefer a less industrial look for your storage. Offering a place to keep files, consumables and other valuables; our range of office furniture covers all bases and includes desks, tables and chairs to create a cohesive look.

When kitting out a large space it is important to ensure everyone can find their way around. Using identification markers such as shelf edge labels, bay markers and document holders will not only assist in wayfinding - they can also be used to pass on important information. Without adequate markers to show where items are stored so they can be found and retrieved easily your hard work could be undone at the final hurdle.