When it comes to steel benches, the design is about more than just appearance. Functionality, comfort, and support are all essential to creating a safe, productive workplace. In Australia, 4 in 5 people will experience serious back pain in their life, while 1 in 6 will have ongoing issues in this area (according to healthdirect.gov.au). This doesn’t even take into account other issues involving the legs, neck, and head, proving how important it is to have ergonomically supportive work environments.
Stainless steel has long been chosen for its durability, hygienic qualities, and its ability to be customised into a variety of designs. There’s a growing trend of businesses choosing stainless steel benches for their ergonomic benefits. Let’s explore both the importance of ergonomics in a busy work environment and how an investment in stainless steel benches can meet these needs.
The Role of Ergonomics in Workplace Productivity
Anyone who’s had one-off or ongoing back, neck, or leg pain will tell you how unpleasant it can be. Unfortunately, it’s quite a common issue. It’s estimated that around 6.9 million Australians suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, ranging from poor posture, lower back pain, a sore neck, pain in the legs, tight muscles, or all of the above. Along with making life uncomfortable and painful for your employees, it can lead to time being taken off work to recover and seek medical attention. Long-lasting back, neck, and spinal problems can lead to other health issues, including less sleep and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Taking ergonomics into consideration when designing your equipment — including workbenches, tables, and chairs — greatly reduces the risk of the above potentially debilitating injuries and increases the overall comfort of your staff. Better physical and mental health leads to a healthier, positive overall environment for your business, one where productivity, task performance, and efficiency thrive.
Stainless Steel Benches and Durability
Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials available and has long been a staple in commercial kitchens, hospitals, medical facilities, laboratories, and many more industries. A stainless steel workbench ticks all the boxes when it comes to aesthetics, functionality, and low maintenance, providing sturdy products that will serve your business for years to come. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and antibacterial, making it ideal for food preparation purposes and anywhere where bacteria are a concern. The durability of stainless means your steel bench will require fewer repairs and less maintenance, cutting down on upkeep costs for your business.
Adjustable Features for Customised Comfort
We’ve been fabricating stainless steel benches for years, and one thing we’ve learned is that no two workplaces are quite the same. Each business has its own unique set of needs and space to work with, which is why we can custom design the perfect stainless steel bench to match your requirements. Before we begin fabrication, we’ll discuss your needs, including getting measurements and determining any extras. Our versatile team can create an ergonomic layout for your work area that improves functionality, productivity, and efficiency while looking after your workers’ health.
Hygiene and Cleanliness in the Workplace
Even before the recent pandemic, there were certain workplaces where cleanliness and hygiene were of paramount importance. Kitchens, healthcare, and laboratories need countertops and benches that are easy to maintain and don’t attract bacteria. A stainless steel surface is naturally antibacterial and easy to clean, contributing to a healthy workspace, and benefitting both your staff and customers. Need further proof? Stainless steel is the material of choice from your local café to the fanciest restaurant in town due to the hygienic yet functional environments it creates. Stainless steel is the only choice when it comes to reliably hygienic work surfaces for your business.
Application of Stainless Steel Benches in Specific Industries
Long hours at workstations are a recipe for health problems if your equipment isn’t ergonomically designed. Kitchens, healthcare facilities, food preparation services, and laboratories around the world rely on stainless steel equipment due to the material’s affordability, durability, and safety benefits. In each of these settings, it’s vital to have hygienic, easy-to-clean benches that can withstand a hectic work environment. For example, in a commercial kitchen, every work surface must be hygienic to avoid giving food poisoning to customers, while in a healthcare facility, infection could be potentially life-threatening to some of the more vulnerable patients. In both of the above situations, staff will also spend a lot of time at their workstations, so minimising the risk of muscle strain, back injury, or discomfort is essential for long-term health.
At Martin Stainless Steel, we’ve designed, built, and installed stainless steel benches for a wide range of businesses in various industries. From pubs to food processing facilities to medical institutions to bakeries, we’ve designed stainless steel benches of every height and size to suit a wide range of needs. Why not take a look at some of our handy work for yourself by clicking here?
The importance of good ergonomics in the workplace cannot be underestimated. Quality stainless steel benches provide a healthier, more productive environment for you and your staff. This not only reduces downtime and injury but will improve the comfort of your workers, making their work life better. At Martin Stainless Steel, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with custom stainless steel benches for any work environment. With our guidance and support, you’ll have stainless steel work benches that will transform your workspace. Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your next project!