Lockers are a crucial part of office interiors. Most people think of office lockers as spaces where employees dump and collect their personal belongings at the end of their shifts. However, office lockers play an instrumental role in reducing clutter, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring the security of employee belongings.
10 million bacteria live on an average work desk, 400 times dirtier than the average toilet seat. This may not be true for all workplaces. However, nobody wants to work in an office where they sit beside a pile of clothes, books, or other personal belongings. Also, a lack of space to sit or work freely can dampen employee morale. Additionally, a survey states that 59% of employees feel engaged and focused on their work in a well-designed office space.
A well-designed office doesn’t only include the reception desk that welcomes visitors. It is a sum of all experiences, including seating arrangements, ventilation, comfort, air conditioning, lavatories, reduced stress, and, most importantly, storage space. Company owners who think office lockers have no place on this list must think again. It may cost them an employee or two. This blog will focus on things employers must consider when choosing office lockers. Keep reading.
10 Things to Consider While Choosing Office Lockers for your Business
Let’s say a business owner wants to invest in office lockers. He can call up a locker manufacturer and get 50 office lockers installed. The work is over, and everyone goes home happy. No, it doesn’t work like that. Investing in office lockers requires a thoughtful approach. Below are the 10 things employers must consider when investing in office lockers.
1. Security Features
Locker security is paramount, and nobody can deny that. Companies can choose from a wide array of locks, including combination, key, and electronic locks. Combination locks rely on sequences of numbers that people can guess, while anyone can duplicate key locks. Electronic locks are more tamper-proof because they use biometric authentication, PIN codes, and other advanced security measures.
How is the office locker anchored? Companies can choose between wall and floor anchors. The first option is feasible for companies with strong walls, while the latter is better for theft-prone and high-traffic areas.
2. Size and Storage Capacity
Choosing office lockers with the right size and storage capacity requires organizations to understand employee needs. What is the size of their belongings? When do they store items the most? Do the belongings include items of value? The frequency of locker use also matters.
Suppose your employees use laptops and other bulky items. In that case, you may need to install custom office lockers with compartments for these items. Adding hooks and cubicles can help employees store items like car keys, headphones, and wallets.
3. Durability
Office lockers are long-term investments. Nobody buys lockers every year, so it is crucial to choose lockers made of suitable material. Laminate or plastic office lockers may look more aesthetic, but they are less durable than stainless steel, aluminum, or other metal lockers. If your business is exposed to water or humidity, choose a metal that can withstand the same.
The locker’s finish also matters greatly. The right finish can increase the locker’s longevity while resisting scratches and corrosion. Powder-coated finishes are highly scratch-resistant, while electroplated coatings (chrome or nickel) provide a smooth corrosion-resistant finish. Vinyl and paint are examples of other metal finishes, but they are not as effective as the others mentioned above.
4. Overall Aesthetics
The lockers’ overall look must complement the office interiors, including branding. Opt for regular white or stainless steel lockers if your brand’s tone is minimalistic. Experiment with colors if they resonate with your brand. The same goes for locker materials and style. Metal lockers suit a business with an industrial vibe, while acrylic or flowery patterns are ideal for companies that sell women’s and babycare products.
Companies can consider incorporating the brand logo on their lockers. Not only does it create a uniform brand experience, but it also increases visibility. Matching the locker colors with the brand can amplify the effect. Customizations can include adding slogans, staff images, or other relevant imagery to catch people’s attention.
5. Convenience
Company management must ensure the installation of lockers in locations where employees can easily access them during breaks or after work. Avoid installing lockers near spots with high footfall, as this can inconvenience employees. Choose a spacious spot that doesn’t attract crowds yet is easily accessible for employees.
Ensure that the lockers are not too high or low. A person of average height must be able to reach the lockers easily. Also, the office lockers must have the necessary features for storage and accommodating items of varying sizes.
6. Cleaning and Ventilation
Aesthetics and functionality are great, but what about cleaning? Office lockers must be easy to clean and maintain. Companies must choose lockers with smooth surfaces like stainless steel, which allows cleaning staff to wipe off dirt, grime, and impurities. The design must be simple, without gaps, holes, or intricate designs that harbor dirt and bacteria.
Without proper ventilation, lockers can become smelly and breeding grounds for bacteria. Hence, adequate airflow must be ensured to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth. Organizations can achieve proper ventilation through natural means, like choosing sunny and airy spots, placing moisture absorbents inside the lockers, or ensuring regular cleaning. Mechanical ventilation systems are good but have energy consumption and other related costs.
7. Budget
Don’t get carried away by the attractive designs and finishes. Companies must be mindful of their budget. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How many lockers do you need?
- What type of lockers do you require?
- What is the average size of lockers you want to install?
- How much can you spend on office lockers?
Be realistic about office locker budgets. Locker manufacturers will give companies a business discount, but they can’t go below a certain price. Research the vendors in your geographical location and get quotes from them. Compare the prices and calculate the price per locker. Check for bulk quantity discounts and be wary of hidden charges. Additional costs may include installation, delivery, and customer charges.
8. Environmental Concerns
Many companies want to contribute to the environment while running their businesses. Such companies can opt for office lockers made of recycled plastic, steel, or hybrid materials. Contrary to popular belief, these recycled office lockers can be pretty durable. At the same time, they reduce landfill waste.
The market also offers lockers that meet environmental standards like LEED certification. Other sustainable measures include LED-lit lockers or fluorescent bulbs, which can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
9. Vendor Track Record
Look for experience when choosing a vendor for office lockers. An experienced vendor or office locker supplier will understand your needs. He will also learn more about lockers, changing industry trends, and how to solve peculiar problems. Even after purchasing office lockers, companies may face problems with security, maintenance, cleaning, and other issues.
A reputed vendor will respond quickly and resolve problems in a timely manner. Such vendors will also be professional and provide personalized services and after-sales support. Customers may also approach the vendor for warranty-related clarity and support. Proper warranty-related support will give clients peace of mind. Most importantly, clients should confirm whether the vendor provides installation, maintenance, and repair services.
10. Employee Feedback
Never ignore employee feedback while investing in office lockers. Your employees will use the lockers. Consider employee feedback, including their preferences, and it will boost their morale while boosting productivity. Organizations can gather employee feedback through surveys, questionnaires, focus groups, suggestion boxes, and detailed feedback sessions.
Including employees in the office locker selection process will create a positive and supportive work environment. Employee input will also ensure that companies choose the right lockers with the required features and functionalities.
In Summation
Office lockers may seem like a trivial or wasted investment. The truth is far from it. These lockers give employees a proper space to store their belongings and ensure a clutter-free work environment. They help them focus on their tasks and provide peace of mind, knowing their belongings are safe.Choosing office lockers may seem straightforward, but it involves many complexities, such as budget, employee needs, market trends, features, etc.
Before choosing office lockers, companies must consider their business type, employee needs, and features. If they need help with making the right decisions, it is advisable to consult a professional office locker supplier. With a professional’s guidance and experience, companies can choose the best office lockers for their business needs.
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