When I built my work bench, the outlets are powered by the same switch that turns the lights on over the bench, so when I leave and turn the lights off, the outlets go out too. I did this to specifically prevent what happened in the OP. Glad you had a good outcome!!

3 Rail,
Nice workbench!!! I need ideas on building one, where to start, what I want, layout and so forth. Yours is a good starting point!