Workbenches

A workbench is a robust, flat work surface designed to support tasks ranging from mechanical assembly and testing to electronics repair and packing. Common features include heavy-duty frames, reinforced worktops, integrated storage, adjustable height settings, and static dissipative surfaces. Whether you're setting up new production lines or upgrading your maintenance workshop, investing in the right workbench improves workflow efficiency, ergonomics, and safety.

A reliable workbench is essential as the centrepiece of any workshop or workspace, either for home-based DIY or in a purpose-made industry workspace. Made from a range of steel types, we have a workbench to suit almost any environment, application or industry, including Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) risk areas and portable workbenches.

Types Of Workbenches

There are several types of workbenches, each tailored to specific industrial needs. Below are the key categories available through RS NZ.

Steel Work Benches

Steel work benches offer superior structural integrity and are built to withstand heavy-duty use in industrial environments. Ideal for mechanical and automotive applications, a steel workbench typically features powder-coated or galvanised frames for corrosion resistance and longevity. These are the go-to choice for workshops requiring high load capacity and durability.

Wooden Worktop Workbenches

A metal work bench with a solid wood or MDF top offers excellent shock absorption and surface stability, especially useful for tasks involving impact tools or bench-top machinery. These work benches are common in carpentry, prototyping, and general assembly lines where surface damage needs to be minimised.

Adjustable Workbenches

Ergonomics are critical in manufacturing environments. Adjustable work benches allow users to alter the height to suit seated or standing tasks. These are especially useful in shared workspaces or for reducing repetitive strain injuries in long-shift operations.

Workbench Kits

Pre-configured workbench kits include a combination of frames, tops, shelves, drawers, and sometimes lighting. These are ideal for teams needing quick setup or standardised workshop benches across multiple workstations. Options range from modular systems to fixed-format kits.

Portable Workbenches

For teams working across sites or requiring flexible layouts, portable workbenches offer foldable frames, castor-mounted bases, and lightweight materials. Despite being mobile, many still support significant static loads and include integrated storage compartments.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Safe Workbenches

In electronics manufacturing and assembly, ESD-safe workbenches are essential. These industrial work benches feature dissipative surfaces, grounding kits, and anti-static mats to prevent electrostatic damage to sensitive components like PCBs, ICs, and sensors.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Workshop Benches

Selecting the right workshop benches for your facility involves evaluating multiple technical and logistical factors:

• Intended Use: Define whether the bench will support assembly, testing, repair, or packaging. This influences the need for add-ons like vices, lighting, or ESD protection.
• Size And Space Availability: Ensure the workbench fits your floor plan while allowing enough clearance for personnel, tools, and materials.
• Material And Durability: Opt for steel work benches or metal work bench options if dealing with heavy loads or corrosive environments. Wooden worktops suit applications requiring impact resistance.
• Portability: If mobility is needed, select portable workbenches with lockable casters and compact frames.
• Load Capacity: Always check the static and dynamic load ratings, especially if placing heavy equipment like compressors or vises.
• Budget: While cost is important, consider long-term ROI based on durability, modularity, and maintenance.

Applications Of Workbenches

Work benches are used in a wide range of sectors and functions:

• Electronics assembly and soldering (ESD-safe)
• Automotive repair and part inspection
• Tool storage and maintenance tasks
• Quality control and testing stations
• Laboratory setups for calibration or sample prep
• Packing, fulfilment, and kitting zones
• Prototyping and light fabrication

Find Your Perfect Workbench For Every Task

Whether you're outfitting a production line or a single technician’s workshop desk, RS NZ provides reliable access to high-performance work benches backed by top brands and local support. With options ranging from adjustable steel work benches to heavy duty work bench kits, we help industrial teams optimise their setup with minimal downtime.

The Leading Supplier and Distributor of Workbenches in New Zealand

RS is your trusted source for high-quality workbenches built to meet the demands of industrial, commercial, and workshop environments. We offer an extensive range of workshop benches from leading manufacturers such as Bott, Treston, and RS PRO, covering everything from heavy duty work bench setups to adjustable, portable, and ESD-safe workbenches.

Our collection includes various configurations, materials, and load capacities to suit every application — whether you're setting up a new production line or upgrading your existing workshop bench layout. In addition, we stock safety relays and monitoring relays to help keep your work area safe.

For more information on our delivery process and shipping fees, please refer to our delivery page.