Covid-19 | Rap Industries Ltd

We became aware of COVID-19 & Social Distancing at the end of 2019 and as we’re well into 2022 it’s still something we’re aware of and is still causing effect. When the pandemic hit it’s peak, and lock downs were being enforced, it was hard to see when the end was in sight, but levels of normality have returned.

Office spaces were changed, shopping wasn’t the same and being close to others was stopped. Social distancing and screening became a large part of everything we did and was an addition to most spaces that has now become familiar.

The addition of screening, mainly acrylic and laminate dividers, changed the look of the office and put the need for acoustic office screens to the bottom of the pile. The reason acrylic and laminate finishes are suitable is due to the easy clean finishes and the fact they can easily be disinfected.

At one stage, social distancing wasn’t a choice so the need for screening made sense. Creating a divide between desk spaces, making sure safety precautions were in place and well being was at the top of the list.

But now the restrictions have been relaxed, do we think it’s time to take the social distancing screens away?

The screening solutions did the job they were there to do, but even without social distancing rules, we believe there is a place for the acrylic and laminate screens. Being 2m apart isn’t a factor now, so the screening helps to provide protection for those who need it and reminds us that we’re not back to how we were in 2019.

Shops and the retail sectors are still largely using the barriers between cashier and customer, it shows that some ways of working are here to stay.

Freestanding and desktop social distancing screens for office social distancing

Working in an office can limit the space you have available, but with the addition of desktop dividers it makes it easier to decipher which work space is yours. From the clear acrylic point of view you receive the best of both worlds – division and visibility. Securing desks doesn’t need to bring darkness to the space, clear acrylic lets natural light shine through, keeping the office space light, airy and positive.

From an acoustic and noise reduction point of view the social distancing screening isn’t the best option, but for hygiene, you couldn’t find anything more effective. The hard surfaces are ideal to wipe clean but can also withstand stronger cleaning products. If social distancing taught us anything it’s that screening can be clear, modern and incredibly effective.

All in all, we think social distancing screens have a place with or without COVID-19 from a practical, visual and effectiveness point of view.

COVID 19 has taken us all by surprise as we continue to settle into the new ‘norm’ and get to grips with regulations and new ways of working. We’ve been gone a while on the blog front, but we’re back with updates, new products, and everything Social Distancing.

Social Distancing has probably become the phrase of the year to make sure we keep at least 2 metres away from others. By doing so, the aim is to reduce and slow the spread of Coronavirus so we can slowly re-introduce the pleasures of life.

At this time, all we can do is work together, support businesses and keep in line with the government rules. As a UK manufacturer and NHS supplier, we already had many screening solutions available to help with social distancing. However, we wanted to offer a wider selection of screens to all sectors and this is how our new Social Distancing Ranges came into existence.

Easy clean and acrylic finishes was the first stop. As the ability to sanitise workstations and office spaces is key. Not only ideal for cleaning but offering a fresh finish and a modern design that can be used well past the days of Coronavirus.

Within the range we have created freestanding and desktop divider, but what is the difference between these screens?

The freestanding style is a full-length divider, which stands with bases or stability feet. Ideally used to divide large open spaces or to create booths and meeting areas.

The Desktop Divider is a smaller option which attaches to or sits on top of the desk. Allowing you to divide the desk into personal workspaces.

Not to mention using the styles together in any working environment to add as much protection as possible. Being able to provide your colleagues with a safe and secure working zone is at the forefront of all our minds, and with the Social Distancing Range it’s easy to achieve.

We’ll be introducing you to our new screen across the next few weeks, so let’s get started with the Modular Protection Panels.

As one of the first COVID designs we released, it’s fair to say it’s been a popular choice. The Modular Protection Panels use a unique panel and pole system which is specific to us at Rap Industries.

Modular Protection Screens

A freestanding design, which uses a framed clear or frosted acrylic/Perspex panel, silver poles and circular bases. The panel attaches to the pole and can be positioned landscape or portrait. A massive USP is the modular feature. Each panel can be linked to the next, enabling you to create a width and configuration for your space.

Create a bespoke social distancing solution, with the made to order modular panels.

Next, we move on to the Desktop Sneeze Screens

Desktop Sneeze Screen

The Sneeze Screen is a desktop take on the Modular Protection Screen. With the same frame and acrylic options, the Sneeze version can be attached to the desktop with a drill through fixings.

We understand that drill through fixings aren’t for everyone, but with this addition we have been able to extend the heights options. Added screen stability has enabled us to create a divider that adds maximum protection when working at a desk or counter all day.

Now let’s talk about acrylic…

As briefly mentioned, acrylic was a top contender when it came to launching the new screens. Clear and frosted acrylic (also known as Perspex) bring different benefits to the table.

Clear acrylic is suitable when the area needs to be protected but full visibility is required. With the transparent finish you’ll be able to view and monitor different working areas with ease.

Frosted Perspex adds more privacy, with a frosted almost opaque finish. Providing the protection you need but also supplying privacy to those departments who require it.

No matter the finish of the acrylic, both are suitable for the social distancing screens and most importantly are easy to clean throughout that day.

View all our Social Distancing Screens

More Coronavirus updates and information can be found Here