Hardshell cases are a bit of a conundrum. Most do nothing more except offer some protection against fall or bump as long as it doesn't happen at an angle where the screen or ports can get damaged with something sharp. Additionally many do not account for the computer's own ventilation leading to more overheating. I would actually advise against a hard case and instead get a padded bag that is designed to handle notebook computers of your size. Do not travel with the computer asleep, as it can suddenly wake up, even with the screen lid closed and overheat sitting in the bag. Shut down the computer before travel. Keep the original Apple box your computer came in, as it has an egg carton like fitting plastic shell that can be used if you ever have to mail it. People in entirely work from home environments should do this. The problem shipping in just bubblewrap, you can miss the corners and innertial impacts can damage the screen in shipping.
If your work environment has many moving objects that could land on the computer by accident, then it really is not a suitable place for the computer. Talk with your facilities manager to help you set aside a safe desk to work on. Get a paper notebook or notepad if you must take readings in this dangerous area before bringing those readings over to the computer, or take photos with your cell phone.