According to HESA, the number of students studying science degrees in higher education has increased. In 2022/23 48% of male students and 43% of female students were enrolled in science subjects and there is a steady pipeline of future students completing these subjects at A level, so getting the facilities right is an important consideration.
In the higher education sector, work benches are more than just functional furniture; they are essential tools that foster productivity, innovation, and efficiency across a range of disciplines. From science labs to art classrooms, these versatile work benches are tailored to meet the specific needs of various academic environments. Here’s a closer look at the different types of work benches available for the education sector:
Laboratory Benches
Laboratory furniture, such as lab work benches, are specifically designed for use in science and technology faculties. With robust, chemical-resistant surfaces, these benches can withstand spills and heavy usage. Often equipped with integrated sinks, storage compartments, and utilities, they are ideal for conducting experiments and supporting research activities in lab settings.
Heavy-Duty Mobile Benches
These versatile work benches cater to high-payload applications and are built for flexibility. Heavy-duty mobile benches are ideal for workshops and technical departments in the higher education sector, enabling users to easily rearrange workspaces to suit evolving needs without sacrificing stability or durability.

Height-Adjustable Benches
Prioritising ergonomics and accessibility, height-adjustable workbenches are a popular choice in higher education. These benches cater to diverse user requirements, supporting both seated and standing positions, making them suitable for collaborative projects and inclusive environments, such as those found in art classrooms or craft work benches.
Demountable Modular Benches
For institutions that require adaptability, demountable modular benches provide a flexible solution. These benches are lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for temporary setups or shared spaces. Their modular design allows customisation to fit specific tasks or configurations, whether in craft work benches or lab work benches.
Art and Design Workbenches
In art classrooms and design faculties, specialised art work benches are essential. These benches often include cutting mats and protection surfaces to support precision tasks like model-making, crafting, and fabric cutting. Self-healing cutting mats are commonly used to preserve work surfaces and extend the lifespan of the workbench.

Custom Workbench Surfaces
For unique or specialised tasks, custom workbench surfaces offer tailored solutions. These surfaces can be designed to accommodate specific equipment, resist wear and tear, or even incorporate anti-static properties for sensitive electronics work, making them a versatile addition to laboratory furniture or art classroom furniture.
Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainability is an increasing priority in the higher education sector. Eco-friendly work benches, crafted from sustainable materials, align with institutional goals to reduce environmental impact while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Workbench
When selecting a work bench for a higher education institution, it’s essential to consider factors such as durability, mobility, safety, and customisation. Suppliers like Rhino Workplace Innovation offer a wide range of solutions, including protective mats and specialized surfaces, to enhance the functionality and longevity of these work benches in both lab and creative environments.
By investing in the right work benches, higher education institutions can create an environment of innovation and productivity, empowering students and staff to excel in diverse academic pursuits.