BT Fleet Services Tablet Charging Lockers: Project Case Study

Total Locker Service worked with BT Fleet Services to develop a secure charging and storage solution for tablet and laptop computers used by engineers across its UK workshop network.

The project formed part of BT Fleet Services’ move towards digital engineer reporting. As portable devices were introduced into workshops, the business needed a practical way to store valuable equipment securely while also keeping it charged and ready for use.

Rather than supplying a standard locker without considering the application, Total Locker Service worked with BT Fleet Services to refine the specification around device capacity, charging, security and future equipment requirements.

Developing the Charging Locker Specification

BT Fleet Services initially approached us with a requirement for charging lockers capable of storing either 10 or 15 tablet computers. Each compartment needed to allow the device to be charged using its own manufacturer-supplied charging equipment.

Following a series of discussions, we developed an initial specification and arranged a meeting using an existing charging locker that was already close to the required design.

The physical sample allowed the customer to assess compartment size, construction, security and charging arrangements before committing to a larger order.

Future-Proofing for Tablets and Laptops

During the specification meeting, it became clear that the original compartment size could be increased to provide greater flexibility.

Although the immediate requirement centred on tablets, larger compartments would allow the lockers to accommodate laptops and larger portable devices if BT Fleet Services’ equipment requirements changed in the future.

This avoided designing the product too closely around one generation of hardware and gave BT Fleet Services greater flexibility over the working life of the installation.

The customer also preferred the enhanced security of the sample unit, including its robust steel construction, 2 mm steel doors and security cam-lock arrangement.

Final BT Charging Locker Design

Following the meeting, Total Locker Service prepared a revised quotation incorporating the agreed changes and additional features.

After further discussion, the specification was accepted and an order was placed.

Total Locker Service assigned Helen Ponder as project manager to coordinate delivery, logistics and communication with BT Fleet Services during the project.

Tablet and Laptop Charging Locker Specification

The lockers were designed to combine secure device storage with an integrated mains charging arrangement.

• Available with 10 or 15 individual compartments.
• Standard UK three-pin mains socket provided within each powered compartment.
• Designed so the user’s normal device charger can be connected inside the locker.
• Single mains power connection for the complete locker.
• Power lead exits from the upper section of the unit.
• External isolator switch positioned at the top of the locker.
• Compartments sized to provide greater flexibility for tablets, laptops and future portable equipment.

Modern charging-locker specifications vary considerably by product. Current systems may use UK mains sockets, USB, USB-C or other power arrangements, so device dimensions, charger type and electrical requirements should always be confirmed before ordering. Total Locker Service’s current laptop and tablet charging locker range includes different capacities, access arrangements and charging configurations.

Charging Locker Security

Physical security was an important part of the BT Fleet Services specification because the lockers were intended to store valuable portable IT equipment in workshop environments.

• 2 mm steel doors: selected to provide a robust barrier around each device compartment.
• Rod-hinge construction: used to provide a strong and durable door-hinge arrangement.
• Security cam locks: fitted with a T-shaped cam as part of the compartment locking system.

Current charging lockers are available with a wider variety of access methods depending on the range, including key locks, padlock fittings, combination locks, digital locking and RFID systems.

BT Charging Locker Dimensions

The project units measured approximately:

Dimension	Size
Height	1800 mm
Width	380 mm
Depth	450 mm

These dimensions relate to the BT Fleet Services project specification and should not be treated as the dimensions of every current charging-locker model. Modern products are available in a range of sizes and compartment configurations.

Why Secure Device Charging Was Important

The project addressed two operational requirements at the same time: protecting portable computers while they were not in use and providing an organised location where equipment could be charged between shifts or jobs.

For organisations managing shared tablets, laptops or other rechargeable equipment, combining storage and power in one controlled location can simplify device allocation and reduce the need for separate charging areas and loose power adaptors.

However, the charging system must still be matched to the actual equipment being stored. Device dimensions, protective cases, plugs, cables, power supplies, ventilation requirements and access arrangements should all be considered during specification.

Charging Lockers for Workplaces and Device Fleets

Total Locker Service now supplies charging lockers for laptops, tablets, mobile phones, tools and other rechargeable equipment for workplaces, schools, colleges, healthcare environments and commercial facilities across the UK.

For laptops and tablets specifically, our laptop and tablet locker range includes fixed lockers, individual-compartment systems, centrally managed storage and mobile charging trolleys.

Before specifying a system, organisations should confirm:

• the number of devices to be stored;
• device dimensions including protective cases;
• charger and connector type;
• power requirements;
• whether users need individual or centrally managed access;
• the preferred locking method;
• available floor space and electrical supply;
• ventilation and cable-management requirements;
• whether additional capacity is required for future equipment.

Need secure storage and charging for a fleet of laptops, tablets or other portable equipment? Contact Total Locker Service on 01284 749211 or email sales@totallocker.co.uk.

Case study: charging-locker project developed by Total Locker Service for BT Fleet Services.