Workplace Lockers UK: Staff Storage, Security, Compliance and Layout Guide

Workplace lockers provide secure, practical storage for staff clothing, bags, personal belongings, uniforms, PPE, laptops, footwear and work equipment. The correct specification depends on what employees actually need to store, how many people require storage at peak times, whether lockers are assigned or shared, the working environment and how the organisation intends to manage access.

A locker suitable for a hybrid office may be very different from one required for a factory changing room, warehouse, healthcare staff area or industrial workplace. Compartment size, material, lock type, layout, cleaning, durability, maintenance and long-term support should all be considered before selecting an individual product range.

This guide explains how to specify workplace lockers for UK offices, factories, warehouses, staff changing rooms and other commercial environments. It covers locker types, dimensions, materials, locks, staff capacity, hybrid working, PPE and clothing storage, workplace welfare, layout, procurement, replacement parts and future expansion.

If you already know the type of lockers you require, browse our commercial locker range. For an office-specific project, see our office workplace locker fit-out guide.

Quick Answer: How Should Workplace Lockers Be Specified?

1. Identify the workplace and user groups.
2. List what each group needs to store.
3. Measure representative bags, clothing, footwear and equipment.
4. Establish peak locker demand.
5. Decide between assigned, shared or temporary-use lockers.
6. Choose suitable compartment dimensions and configuration.
7. Select a material appropriate for the environment.
8. Choose a locking system the organisation can realistically manage.
9. Consider workplace welfare, clothing and PPE requirements.
10. Plan locker position, aisles, door opening and benches.
11. Check delivery and installation access.
12. Plan replacement keys, locks, parts and ongoing maintenance.
13. Compare complete specifications and whole-life cost rather than purchase price alone.

Specify workplace lockers around the people and the work, not simply around the available wall space.

What Are Workplace Lockers Used For?

• coats and outdoor clothing;
• handbags and backpacks;
• personal belongings;
• work uniforms;
• overalls;
• PPE;
• safety footwear;
• helmets;
• laptops and tablets;
• phones and electronic equipment;
• tools and equipment;
• lunch bags;
• and temporary storage during the working day.

The locker should be sized around the largest items employees regularly need to store rather than simply choosing the greatest possible number of compartments.

Workplace Lockers for Different Environments

Workplace	Typical storage	Main priorities
Office	Bags, coats, laptops and personal belongings	Appearance, hybrid attendance, compact storage and flexible access
Factory	Uniforms, workwear, PPE, boots and personal clothing	Capacity, durability, shift flow and clothing separation
Warehouse	Outerwear, bags, PPE and personal belongings	Robust daily use, practical sizing and straightforward lock management
Healthcare staff area	Uniforms, clothing and personal belongings	Changing routines, cleaning and controlled access
Industrial changing room	PPE, workwear, footwear and personal clothing	Changing space, cleaning and separation where required
Hybrid workplace	Bags, laptops, coats and day-use belongings	Variable attendance, shared allocation and reliable release

Identify the Workplace Locker Users

Do not assume every employee needs the same storage arrangement. One workplace may include:

• permanent office staff;
• hybrid employees;
• factory shift workers;
• warehouse operatives;
• engineers;
• cleaners;
• healthcare staff;
• contractors;
• temporary workers;
• and visitors.

Separating user groups during planning can reveal that different locker sizes, configurations or access methods are required within the same building.

Decide What Staff Need to Store

Measure representative belongings wherever practical. External locker dimensions do not tell you whether an employee’s actual bag, boots, coat or PPE will fit comfortably inside.

Coats and uniforms

Where staff need to store coats, uniforms, overalls or hanging garments, full-height or appropriately configured garment lockers may be more useful than small multi-tier compartments.

Bags and personal belongings

Bags often determine the practical minimum compartment size. A compartment may provide ample space for a phone and wallet but still fail if employees normally bring backpacks, handbags or laptop bags.

PPE and work equipment

Where staff store helmets, safety footwear, protective clothing or equipment, measure those items before choosing the locker configuration. Bulky PPE can make apparently efficient high-tier lockers impractical.

Laptops and electronic equipment

Allow for protective cases, chargers and cables. Where devices need to charge while stored, specify purpose-designed charging equipment rather than assuming power can simply be added to a normal personal locker.

See our charging lockers and secure charging products.

Calculate Workplace Locker Capacity

Total employee headcount is not always the correct locker quantity. Capacity should reflect how the workplace actually operates.

• maximum simultaneous attendance;
• shift patterns;
• shift overlap;
• hybrid working;
• permanent assignments;
• shared lockers;
• contractors and visitors;
• future recruitment;
• and lockers temporarily unavailable for maintenance.

For broader capacity calculations, see our How Many Lockers Do You Need? guide.

Assigned vs Shared Workplace Lockers

Factor	Assigned	Shared
User	One regular employee	Different users at different times
Capacity	Usually linked to allocated users	Can follow realistic peak attendance
Long-term storage	Easy to support	Usually unsuitable unless separately managed
Administration	Allocation and key or credential control	Allocation, clearing and release management
Hybrid working	Can leave lockers unused	Can improve utilisation

Shared storage is not automatically better. Staff who keep uniforms, safety footwear or work equipment on site may still need assigned lockers even in a partly hybrid organisation.

Choose the Workplace Locker Configuration

Configuration	Typical workplace use
Single tier	Coats, uniforms, PPE, hanging clothing and large bags
Two tier	Bags, folded clothing and general staff storage
Three or four tier	Personal belongings and smaller bags
Five or six tier	Compact day-use storage
Z locker	Hanging clothing where footprint efficiency matters
Clean-and-dirty locker	Workplaces needing clothing separation
Device locker	Phones, tablets, laptops and electronic equipment

Increasing the number of locker doors increases user capacity but reduces the usable storage within each compartment.

Workplace Locker Sizes and Dimensions

• overall height;
• locker width;
• locker depth;
• internal compartment height;
• internal compartment width;
• internal depth;
• door opening;
• shelf position;
• and lock projection.

For detailed positioning, staff flow and shift planning, see our Workplace Locker Layout Guide UK.

Choose the Locker Material

Material	Typical workplace use	Main consideration
Steel	Offices, factories, warehouses and general staff areas	Durable and widely configurable
Laminate door	Offices and higher-finish interiors	Decorative appearance and robust doors
Plastic	Wet or corrosion-sensitive areas	Moisture resistance
Wire mesh	Selected industrial and equipment-storage applications	Ventilation and visibility rather than privacy

Do not choose the locker material from appearance or price alone. Match it to the actual environmental conditions.

See our Locker Materials UK guide or browse our metal locker range.

Choose the Workplace Locker Lock

Lock type	Typical workplace application	Main management issue
Keyed cam lock	Permanent assigned lockers	Key issue, return and replacement
Hasp and padlock	User-managed storage	Lost or abandoned padlocks
Mechanical combination	Keyless assigned or shared storage	Forgotten codes and resets
Electronic PIN	Flexible or shared workplaces	Codes and batteries
RFID	Sites using compatible staff cards or fobs	Credential administration
Managed electronic access	Larger flexible locker estates	Permissions and ongoing support

For the wider comparison, see our Locker Locks UK guide.

Master Keys and Management Access

Authorised management access should be planned when the lock system is specified rather than after installation.

• mechanical master key;
• override key;
• reset tool;
• administrator code;
• RFID management credential;
• or software permissions.

The organisation should define who is authorised to open occupied lockers and how those higher-level credentials are controlled.

Workplace Locker Security

Locker security depends on the complete installation rather than the lock alone.

• locker construction;
• door and hinge condition;
• lock type;
• locker location;
• visibility and supervision;
• lighting;
• room access;
• key or credential control;
• management override;
• and leaver procedures.

For the broader subject, see our Locker Security UK guide.

Workplace Welfare and Clothing Storage

Workplace welfare requirements should be considered where staff need clothing storage or changing facilities. The correct arrangement depends on the work activity, clothing employees need to wear and the risks present on the site.

Where employees need to change into special work clothing, secure storage for personal clothing and workwear may form part of the welfare provision. Where work clothing becomes dirty, damp or contaminated, greater separation may be appropriate.

Check current HSE workplace welfare guidance and the organisation’s own risk assessment when specifying facilities.

PPE Storage

Where PPE is required, provide suitable storage while it is not in use. The storage should reflect the type of PPE and help protect it from damage, dirt, contamination or unsuitable environmental conditions.

Not every item of PPE necessarily needs an individual personal locker. Depending on the equipment and risk assessment, suitable storage may include individual lockers, divided compartments, racks, cabinets or other accommodation.

Clean and Dirty Clothing Separation

• internally divided lockers;
• clean-and-dirty locker configurations;
• separate locker banks;
• dedicated workwear storage;
• separate footwear or boot storage;
• or specialist storage for contaminated equipment.

The correct arrangement depends on the work activity, hygiene procedures and risk assessment.

See our Workplace Changing Rooms guide.

Workplace Locker Layout

A workplace locker specification is incomplete until the lockers have been tested against the actual room.

• locker depth;
• open-door projection;
• users standing in front of lockers;
• opposing locker rows;
• benches;
• shift-change traffic;
• doorways;
• main circulation routes;
• cleaning access;
• maintenance access;
• and delivery routes.

For detailed dimensions and flow, use our Workplace Locker Layout Guide UK.

Plan for Shift Changes

Factory and warehouse locker areas can become busiest when one shift arrives while another leaves.

• multiple locker doors may be open;
• staff may be changing footwear or clothing;
• bags may occupy floor space;
• benches may be fully occupied;
• and incoming and outgoing users may share the same route.

Plan for this peak condition rather than judging the room when it is empty.

Workplace Locker Benches

Bench seating can make changing areas considerably more practical where staff change footwear, uniforms or work clothing. Benches also consume working space when occupied, so they should be planned with the lockers rather than added afterwards.

Browse our changing room bench seating.

Office Workplace Lockers

Office lockers commonly provide personal storage where employees may no longer have permanent desks. Typical contents include bags, coats, laptops, chargers, headphones, lunch items and everyday belongings.

• compact but useful storage;
• space for realistic commuting bags;
• a finish appropriate for the office;
• capacity suited to hybrid attendance;
• simple staff access;
• and positioning that does not obstruct circulation.

Hybrid Workplace Lockers

Hybrid offices should normally plan capacity from realistic peak attendance rather than average attendance or payroll headcount alone.

• Which days are busiest?
• Do teams attend together?
• Are visitors and contractors included?
• Who needs permanent storage?
• Who only needs day-use storage?
• How will shared lockers be cleared and released?
• How much reserve capacity is required?

Electronic or RFID access can help where changing allocation creates a genuine management requirement, but simpler combination systems may be sufficient for many workplaces.

Factory Staff Lockers

• adequate room for workwear, boots and PPE;
• durable construction;
• practical layouts for shift changes;
• cleaning access;
• clothing separation where required;
• bench seating where staff change;
• and locks that can be managed reliably.

A small multi-tier locker may provide excellent theoretical capacity but perform badly where workers need to store bulky uniforms, boots and protective equipment.

Warehouse Staff Lockers

Warehouse lockers commonly sit in welfare areas, canteens, staff entrances or changing facilities. Employees may need storage for coats, bags, food, high-visibility clothing, PPE and sometimes work footwear or equipment.

• durable storage for frequent use;
• useful capacity for outerwear and personal belongings;
• simple lock options;
• layouts suitable for compact welfare areas;
• easy cleaning;
• peak-shift capacity;
• and maintenance access.

Healthcare Staff Lockers

Healthcare staff storage can involve uniforms, changing shifts, temporary workers and controlled staff areas.

• what staff need to store;
• changing arrangements;
• cleaning requirements;
• temporary and permanent staff;
• locker allocation;
• lock management;
• and any separation required by local procedures or risk assessment.

Charging Lockers for Workplace Devices

Where employees need to store and charge laptops, tablets, phones or rechargeable equipment, purpose-designed charging lockers can combine storage with power provision.

• device dimensions;
• charger dimensions;
• number of devices;
• electrical requirements;
• compartment access;
• maintenance;
• ventilation where required;
• and charging-locker location.

See our charging products.

Workplace Locker Procurement: Specify Before Comparing Prices

Facilities and procurement teams should compare like with like. A meaningful quotation comparison starts with a consistent specification.

• number of compartments;
• locker dimensions;
• tier configuration;
• material;
• lock type;
• colour and finish;
• numbering;
• stands, plinths or sloping tops;
• bench seating where required;
• delivery;
• installation;
• replacement-key requirements;
• master or override access;
• and future parts support.

Comparing quotations for materially different specifications can create an apparently large price difference that is not genuinely like for like.

Do Not Buy Workplace Lockers on Price Alone

Purchase price is only one part of the cost of operating a workplace locker installation.

• delivery;
• installation;
• replacement keys;
• replacement locks;
• master keys;
• electronic-lock batteries;
• software or licensing where applicable;
• replacement doors and components;
• maintenance labour;
• cleaning;
• and administration created by the access system.

Whole-life value depends on whether the lockers remain suitable for the workplace and whether practical replacement parts and support remain available.

Replacement Parts Should Be Considered During Procurement

• replacement keys;
• master keys;
• replacement locks;
• cams;
• hinges;
• coat hooks;
• number plates;
• doors where available;
• electronic-lock components;
• and manufacturer-specific fittings.

Keeping a basic record of locker manufacturer, range, lock type and key series can make future servicing considerably easier.

For existing installations, use our replacement locker key service, locker locks and locker parts.

Workplace Locker Maintenance

• Check doors for alignment.
• Check hinges and pivots.
• Check lock operation.
• Inspect retaining nuts and fittings.
• Replace missing number plates.
• Replace damaged keys.
• Check benches and surrounding fittings.
• Replace electronic-lock batteries when required.
• Keep floors and surrounding areas accessible for cleaning.

See our Locker Parts, Repairs & Servicing guide.

Repair or Replace Existing Workplace Lockers?

A failed lock or lost key does not automatically mean a complete locker bank needs replacing.

• Are the cabinet bodies still sound?
• Are the doors serviceable?
• Are hinges in reasonable condition?
• Are replacement locks available?
• Do the compartment dimensions still suit staff?
• Does the current layout still work?

Complete replacement becomes more attractive where extensive corrosion, structural damage, unsuitable dimensions or a major change in user requirements makes continued repair poor value.

Can Workplace Locker Locks Be Upgraded?

Often, yes. Existing lockers may accept different keyed, combination, electronic or RFID locks where the door preparation, fixing method and locking arrangement are compatible.

Test one conversion before committing to a large retrofit programme.

See our Locker Lock Upgrade Guide UK.

Phased Workplace Locker Upgrades

• replace the poorest locker banks first;
• test alternative locker or lock systems;
• reduce disruption;
• spread expenditure;
• collect user feedback;
• and use lessons from the first phase to improve later work.

Common Workplace Locker Procurement Mistakes

• Buying on price before defining the requirement.
• Using total headcount instead of peak attendance.
• Choosing too many tiers for the belongings being stored.
• Ignoring coats, bags, PPE or boots.
• Assuming every employee needs the same locker.
• Ignoring assigned versus shared allocation.
• Using an office specification in a factory or warehouse without checking storage needs.
• Choosing a material unsuitable for the environment.
• Selecting locks without planning their administration.
• Ignoring master or override access.
• Assuming electronic systems automatically reduce administration.
• Ignoring locker depth and open-door projection.
• Adding benches after the locker layout has been fixed.
• Planning around average rather than peak use.
• Ignoring shift-change congestion.
• Ignoring cleaning and maintenance access.
• Failing to consider welfare and clothing-storage requirements.
• Ignoring replacement keys, locks and spare parts.
• Comparing quotations with materially different specifications.
• Failing to allow for future staffing or working-pattern changes.

Workplace Locker Specification Checklist

• Who will use the lockers?
• How many employees are present at peak times?
• Are lockers assigned or shared?
• Are contractors and visitors included?
• What must fit inside?
• Are coats, uniforms or PPE stored?
• Are boots or helmets stored?
• Are laptops or devices stored?
• Is charging required?
• What compartment size is needed?
• Which tier configuration works?
• What material suits the environment?
• What lock system suits the users?
• Is master or override access required?
• How will lost keys or credentials be managed?
• Do work clothing and personal clothing need separation?
• Are benches required?
• How busy is the area during shift change?
• Is circulation space adequate?
• Is cleaning access adequate?
• Can the lockers be delivered into the building?
• Is installation required?
• Are stands, plinths or sloping tops required?
• Will lockers be numbered?
• Are replacement keys, locks and parts available?
• What ongoing maintenance will be required?
• What is the whole-life cost?
• Is future expansion likely?

Related Workplace Locker Guides

• Commercial Lockers – current locker ranges.
• Workplace Lockers for Office Fit-Outs – dedicated office projects.
• Workplace Locker Layout Guide UK – dimensions and staff flow.
• Workplace Changing Rooms – clothing, PPE and changing arrangements.
• Locker Capacity Planning – calculating demand.
• Locker Locks UK – lock selection.
• Locker Parts and Servicing – repairs and maintenance.
• Changing Room Bench Seating – seating for workplace changing areas.

Workplace Lockers FAQs

Specify Workplace Lockers Around the People and the Work

The strongest workplace locker installation starts with the way employees actually work. Define the belongings being stored, peak user numbers, assigned or shared allocation, clothing and PPE requirements, locker dimensions, material and locking system before comparing individual products.

Office lockers, factory staff lockers and warehouse lockers all belong within the broad workplace-storage category, but they should not automatically use the same specification. Offices commonly place greater emphasis on appearance, compact storage and flexible attendance. Factories may need larger compartments, workwear storage, PPE provision and more space for concentrated shift changes. Warehouses usually need practical, durable storage that works reliably in busy welfare areas.

For procurement, compare the complete specification and whole-life support rather than purchase price alone. Replacement keys, locks, parts, maintenance and the organisation’s ability to manage the locking system all affect long-term value.

Browse our commercial locker range, or call 01284 749211 or email sales@totallocker.co.uk for help specifying a workplace locker system.