Covid Desk Guard Buying Guide | Technology Desking™

As we emerge from lockdown and return to the office, businesses must create a safe working environment for their employees. A desk guard on each workstation is an effective way of doing this. Office screens come in a variety of formats and materials such as perspex, glass and even cardboard.

With so many options available how do we know which to choose? This guide can help you select the best desk barrier for your needs.

What are the benefits of desk guards?

They create a significant layer of protection from Covid 19 by blocking larger airborne droplets. This helps limit the exposure and spread of Covid amongst employees
They help workers feel safe. Clients and employees can feel reassured that the company is taking measures to protect them
A desk guard reminds people to maintain a distance from each other. It can be easy to forget or ignore social distancing rules, having a physical separation acts as a reminder
Barriers provide some protection from surface contamination by keeping everyone’s workspace separate
A desk guard also lowers the risk of catching other common respiratory conditions such as colds and flu
They can be used in a variety of settings from offices to public spaces, medical environments and retail

What should I consider when buying a desk guard?

Material Options

Acrylic is a lightweight, transparent option that comes in a variety of finish options. An acrylic or perspex screen is durable, scratch and water resistant. Acrylic also costs less than some other materials.

Toughened Glass is more transparent than other desk screen materials and will give you the clearest view of your surroundings. A glass desk guard is easy to clean and scratch resistant.

Cardboard is the most cost effective and environmentally friendly solution. It’s also freestanding with no need for mechanical fixing.

Where will the desk shields be installed?

It’s important to consider the environment in which the barriers will be used before deciding which type to buy. A trading desk barrier might need a different specification to a reception or freestanding desk for example.

What size should the desk protector be?

For most desks a height of 450mm - 650mm will be sufficient although custom sizes are also available. The width and depth will be determined by measuring the desk where the panels will be mounted.

How is the desk guard mounted onto the desk?

Free Standing Mount

The sneeze guard stands on pads - this option has the advantage of being portable so the screen can easily be moved to different desks.

No Mount

The desk shield panels interlock and support themselves so no mount is required. This is also a good portable option allowing the office desk guards to be easily repositioned.

Clamp Mount

Clamp mounts attach to your desk or table. They keep the screens in a fixed position so they can’t be accidentally knocked over.

What is the lead time?

It’s important to check the supplier’s lead time when purchasing bespoke desk barriers. They are in high demand right now so a lead time of 3-4 weeks is standard for most suppliers. It’s a good idea to get your order in early if you’re planning a return to the office for your employees.

Looking to make your workplace covid secure? At Technology Desking we supply a wide range of office desk screens. Find your perfect desk guard here