Shop floors and lighting are critical

The condition and maintenance of metalworking shops have a direct impact on efficiency and morale. A well-lit, clean shop is less mentally demanding than a wet, dripping, bat-infested cave of a shop. If it looks and smells bad, it probably is.

An organized, well-planned shop space is a pleasure to work in. Having everything at hand and organized is like shopping at your favorite tool store. Retail hardware stores are a good example of what a nifty metalworking shop might look like. Don’t underestimate the impact of infrastructure improvements on efficiency and profits.

Light-colored floors are best for machine shops and areas where fine work is being performed because they reflect light and give the shop a cleaner feel. It doesn’t hurt that it’s easier to find a lost part on a light-colored floor.

Epoxy coating or even special-colored flooring tiles can brighten the shop. Individual tiles are best because they can be replaced if damaged. The tiles also provide a little cushion if you drop a tool or delicate part. Plastic floor tiles that snap together are available in an array of colors.

If the floor is concrete, a smooth finish makes sweeping easier and doesn’t wear out the toes on boots as quickly when crawling around on your hands and knees. Skip the nonslip sand and abrasive material in paint and epoxy coatings. At least sample a test section before turning several thousand square feet into sandpaper. If you need proof, try sweeping the parking lot to get a feel for roughened surfaces as shop floors.

One of the best types of floors for durability and working comfort is wood. The extra cushion provided by wood makes long hours easier on the feet and knees. However, such a floor is not always practical in modern concrete buildings.