Locker Knowledge Centre
Choosing the right locker isn't always straightforward. With so many sizes, materials, lock options and specialist designs available, it's important to understand which solution is right for your workplace.
Our Locker Knowledge Centre answers the questions we're asked every day, helping you choose the best locker for your environment, staff and budget.
What Types of Lockers Are Available?
There are many locker types designed for specific applications:
Standard Lockers
Suitable for storing personal belongings, bags, coats, and equipment.
Office Lockers
Designed for modern workplaces and hybrid working environments where employees may not have assigned desks.
Uniform Lockers
Feature hanging rails, hooks, and shelving for storing uniforms, PPE, and workwear.
Charging Lockers
Allow phones, laptops, tablets, radios, and other devices to be securely stored while charging.
School Lockers
Provide secure storage for books, bags, and personal belongings.
Clean & Dirty Lockers
Used in healthcare, manufacturing, and industrial settings to separate clean garments from contaminated clothing.
What Size Locker Do I Need?
Small Lockers
Ideal for:
- Mobile phones
- Wallets
- Keys
- Small personal items
Medium Lockers
Ideal for:
- Bags
- Laptops
- Documents
- PPE
Full Height Lockers
Ideal for:
- Coats
- Uniforms
- Workwear
- Sports equipment
When selecting lockers, consider both current requirements and future growth.
What Locking Options Are Available?
Most lockers are available with a variety of locking systems:
Cam Locks
Traditional key-operated locks supplied with keys.
Hasp & Staple Locks
Allow users to provide their own padlock.
Combination Locks
No keys required.
Digital Locks
Suitable for shared-use environments.
RFID Locks
Access controlled using cards or fobs.
The best option depends on security requirements and how frequently lockers are used.
Are Lockers Suitable for Hybrid Working?
Yes.
Many modern offices use lockers to support flexible working practices. Employees can securely store personal belongings when working from the office while using hot desks or shared workspaces.
Benefits include:
- Reduced desk clutter
- Improved workspace utilisation
- Enhanced security
- Better employee experience
How Many Lockers Does My Business Need?
This depends on:
- Number of employees
- Shift patterns
- Visitor requirements
- Hybrid working arrangements
In traditional workplaces, one locker per employee is common. However, organisations with hybrid working often require fewer lockers as employees share facilities across different days.
Are Steel Lockers Better Than Plastic Lockers?
Both have advantages.
Steel Lockers
- Strong and durable
- Cost effective
- Available in many configurations
- Suitable for most workplaces
Plastic Lockers
- Water resistant
- Corrosion resistant
- Suitable for wet environments
For most commercial, educational, and industrial applications, steel lockers remain the preferred option.
What Industries Use Lockers?
Lockers are widely used across:
Offices
Personal storage and hybrid working.
Warehouses
Storage of PPE, personal belongings, and equipment.
Healthcare
Uniform storage and infection control.
Emergency Services
Storage of uniforms, radios, and specialist equipment.
Education
Secure student and staff storage.
Manufacturing
Personal storage and PPE management.
What Are Clean & Dirty Lockers?
Clean & Dirty Lockers feature separate compartments for clean clothing and used workwear.
They are commonly used in:
- Healthcare environments
- Laboratories
- Food production facilities
- Manufacturing sites
These lockers help maintain hygiene standards and reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
What Are Charging Lockers?
Charging lockers provide secure storage while simultaneously charging devices.
Typical applications include:
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Radios
- Body cameras
- Handheld scanners
Charging lockers help reduce cable clutter and ensure devices remain secure while charging.
How Long Do Lockers Last?
A quality steel locker system can provide many years of reliable service when correctly installed and maintained.
Factors affecting lifespan include:
- Environment
- Usage levels
- Lock type
- Cleaning and maintenance procedures
Many premium locker manufacturers offer warranties.
Storage First Lockers provide a 7 Year Warranty
How Do I Choose the Right Locker?
When selecting lockers, consider:
✓ What needs to be stored
✓ Available space
✓ Security requirements
✓ User numbers
✓ Hygiene requirements
✓ Charging requirements
✓ Future growth plans
The best solution balances security, functionality, durability, and available budget.