If your company assembles or makes electronics, choosing the right workbench design is key for your production area. Missing a key design component can leave you scrambling. You'll need to fix the issue it may cause in your production.

A well-configured electronics lab workbench will boost productivity. It will also improve organization and safety in the assembly area. Here are four challenges professionals face when ordering or configuring their workbenches.

• Workbench Height: 

The ability to adjust workbench height lets people of different heights use it. It ensures that each worker can set the work surface to a level they find comfortable. This reduces the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.

Proper workbench height is essential for maintaining good ergonomic posture. Workers who spend long hours at a workbench need to be able to reach tools, parts, and gear without straining. They need to do this without hurting their backs, shoulders, or necks.

Our workbench supplier, Workstation Industries, has written an in-depth article on the Benefits of an Adjustable Workstation, read the complete text here.

Electrical and Safety Considerations:

• Power Outlets and Distribution:

Make sure the workbench has enough power outlets. They are for the many devices, tools, and equipment used in the electronics assembly area.

Plan the placement of power outlets strategically. This will make them easy to access and avoid clutter and tangled cords on the workbench.

• ESD Protection:           

Use workbench materials and surfaces that dissipate static electricity. Examples are ESD-safe mats and tabletops. They prevent the build-up and discharge of electrostatic energy.

Personnel must wear ESD protection gear. This gear includes wrist straps and ESD-safe footwear. It keeps their bodies at the same electrical potential as the equipment and components.

Storage and Organization:

• Tool Storage:

Use tool racks, holders, or shadow boards. They will help you store tools in easy reach on the workbench.

Add drawers and cabinets to the workbench. They store smaller tools and delicate instruments. They also hold items that need protection from dust and damage.

Lighting and Visibility:

• Task Lighting:

Install task lighting fixtures. They should be adjustable in position and intensity. This allows workers to customize the lighting for their tasks.

Adjustable lighting helps reduce shadows and glare on reflective surfaces. It ensures good visibility when working on electronics assembly or soldering.

• Magnification:

Add adjustable magnifying lamps to the workstation. They provide targeted magnification. This is for tasks like soldering, inspection, or working with small electronic parts. Provide a range of magnification tools and accessories, including handheld magnifiers and magnifying glasses, to meet the diverse magnification requirements during electronics assembly tasks.

Conclusion:

Setting up an electronics lab workbench involves addressing many key factors. These factors create an efficient and ergonomic workspace. A good workbench enhances productivity, safety, and adaptability. It meets the diverse needs of professionals in the electronics assembly area.

SMT Supplies are experts in the field of workstation selection and configuration. If you have questions, contact us to start the conversation.