British-made ESD testing workspace for a leading embedded computer manufacturer
The design brief for Essex House centred around creating a highly functional electronics testing space capable of supporting a large amount of equipment while maintaining effective electrostatic discharge protection.
The main workspace was arranged as three columns of back-to-back 2000mm x 800mm Medium Duty ESD Workstations, creating clearly defined engineering stations while making efficient use of the available floor area.
Each workstation was configured specifically around the needs of Concurrent’s test engineers.
Facility frames were fitted with overhead lighting to provide dedicated task illumination, along with height-adjustable ESD shelving for test equipment and instrumentation. Desktop-mounted steel power and data trunking was also incorporated into each workstation, complete with RCD protection and six twin sockets, providing engineers with convenient access to power for the wide range of equipment used during testing and development.
Frame-mounted lockable double drawers provided secure local storage, while dedicated grounding boxes were fitted to each workstation as part of the ESD specification.
The worktops and shelving were manufactured using carbon-loaded static-dissipative materials, helping control electrostatic charge around sensitive electronic components. Each workstation was also individually earthed using appropriate earthing straps to create a controlled ESD-safe working environment.
Throughout the design process, the Nortek Group team worked closely with Concurrent Technologies’ Global Health, Safety & Facilities Manager, Lisa Little, to finalise the specification before the furniture entered manufacture.
Technical workspaces need to support more than individual testing.
As part of the Essex House design, Nortek Group recommended a bespoke 1500mm Plectrum high table positioned at the centre of the room to provide engineers with a dedicated space for collaboration, discussion and quick decision-making.
The table was manufactured with a 36mm dry-wipe surface, allowing engineers to sketch ideas, make notes and work through designs directly on the tabletop during meetings and technical discussions.
Six upholstered chairs were selected to accompany the table, with finishes chosen to complement the design of the ESD floor tiles.
Positioned beneath a distinctive microchip-inspired light feature, the Plectrum table forms a visual centrepiece within the room while also serving a practical role in the day-to-day operation of the engineering team.
An effective ESD-controlled environment extends beyond the workbench itself.
Alongside the full suite of ESD workstations and the Plectrum collaboration table, Nortek Group supplied a complementary room of mobile, height-adjustable ESD laboratory stools.
Each stool features a Skai Mano-S ESD vinyl seat covering and is designed to support safe use within electrostatic protected areas. Seat height, back height and back rake are all adjustable, allowing engineers to configure the seating around their individual working position.
With a maximum user weight of 150kg, the stools provide a robust and ergonomic seating solution suitable for demanding laboratory and testing environments.
The Essex House installation demonstrates how a well-designed industrial workspace can combine technical performance, ergonomics and collaboration within one cohesive environment.
Rather than simply supplying standard ESD benches, Nortek Group worked closely with Concurrent Technologies to configure each workstation around the equipment, processes and working practices of the engineering team.
For businesses operating within electronics manufacturing, testing and development, controlling electrostatic discharge is critical. However, an effective ESD facility also needs to provide engineers with reliable power distribution, effective lighting, suitable storage and comfortable working positions.
By bringing these elements together, the Essex House project has created a professional testing environment designed around both the product and the people using it.
The completed facility also marks the continuation of a strong working relationship between Nortek Group and Concurrent Technologies as the business expands its UK operations.
“Thank you for being part of our expansion. Your support, guidance and install team have been incredible. Throughout the sales, delivery and installation process it has been a pleasure to work with you.”
Lisa Little – Global Health, Safety & Facilities Manager, Concurrent Technologies
If your business is experiencing a similar period of growth then get in touch with our design team today to explore how Nortek Group can help deliver world-class workspaces.
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