Sure, workbenches can get messy at times, but there’s a difference between clutter and chaos. A chaotic workspace is unsafe, unsanitary and unacceptable. Here are some tips to keeping your workbench tidy and how keeping it organized can be beneficial to your business:

1. Make Tools Reachable

Not every facility has unlimited space. That’s where a pegboard comes in handy. This setup allows you to hang and store tools on the wall, while still being within reach. A pegboard can hold adjustable hooks, bins and magnetic sheets for tools of all sizes, from power saws to stray nuts and bolts. With a pegboard handy, everything has a place and there’s a place for everything.

By utilizing space in a smart way, it not only makes work more efficient but makes for a safer environment. Your employees no longer have to stop a project to find the right size nail for the job. The less that tools are left unattended, the fewer accidents occur.

2. Utilize Space

The key to organization is using all of the space available. Do so by installing workbenches with drawers, bins and totes. The more storage you have, the easier it is to keep everything tidy. Use dividers to systematize small items, like nails and screws and wall-mounted cabinets to make practical use of the area.

Make your workbench mobile with a rolling tool cabinet. Quickly and safely move tools anywhere in your facility.

3. Labels, Labels, Labels

It doesn’t matter if you have five employees or five hundred, labeling everything is a smart choice. Label tools by use or brand. Your workers could even put their names on each instrument so there are no mix-ups. It may be a tedious task, but it’s worth doing not only for organization but also workflow efficiency.

4. Outline Your Tools

It might seem like an old-fashioned practice, but outlining your tools on the pegboard makes putting things back a breeze. Like a puzzle, everything has a spot. Hint: Don’t use anything permanent so there’s the option of switching things around in the future.

5. Let There Be Light

When it comes to accessories for your workbenches, there are plenty of add-ons to choose from. But one of the necessities is light. Each workbench may require different task lighting and can brighten the entire look of each workspace. The brighter it is, the easier it is to see and keep things organized. You’d be surprised what a little bit of light can do. Choose bulbs based on adjustability. For example, try to find a lamp that can be modified to accommodate working standing or sitting on a shop stool.

Sources:

http://smallbusiness.chron.com/organize-storage-inventory-warehouse-13246.html

http://www.skuvault.com/blog/warehouse-inventory-management-tips

Pub. 04/2017