4 tips for choosing a chemical storage cabinet

The proper storage of chemicals used by an entity or company is of strategic importance, both for protecting the health of workers and for the business. Nowadays in most companies it's not uncommon to find many hazardous chemicals in work areas, but improper storage can jeopardize everything. One of the best ways to protect chemicals and personnel is to invest in chemical storage cabinets.

Here is a quick rundown of things that should considered before purchasing chemical storage cabinets.

1 - Learn the correct storage techniques for each chemical substance.

Each chemical substance is unique in composition and storage requirements. Before buying a cabinet, one should be familiar with the different types of chemicals that must be stored inside in proper way. For example, corrosive chemicals should be stored in corrosion resistant cabinets. Chemical products need to be stored in special safety cabinets equipped with motor and activated carbon filter.

2 - Use more than one cabinet for the storage of chemical products

Acids and bases shouldn’t be stored in the same safety cabinet, an oxidizer shouldn’t be stored with any type of organic material. To avoid the risk of dangerous reaction, the plan of an investment that covers a sufficient number of cabinets is required. In order to avoid dangerous interactions, the only way is to separate chemicals by type and characteristics.

3 - Choose the right cabinets!

Not all chemical storage cabinets are the same. When choosing a safety storage cabinet, do it according to what it shall contain, and the safety performance demonstrable by product tests carried out by the manufacturer. 
For flammable substances choose a cabinet certified to EN 14470-1, EN 16121, and EN 16122.
This type of cabinets protects the operator and his laboratory thanks to the fireproof insulation made of highly fire-resistant material and the safety devices which they are equipped with.

4 - Let a specialist help you.

Understanding the best practices for storing hazardous chemicals can make a big difference to the safety of your business operations. With the right tips, you can choose cabinets that will increase productivity and minimize risk. Contact your trusted advisor or ask our experts for advice: send an email to info@laborsecurity.com