Safety Storage Cabinet Selection Guide
Avoid potentially explosive accidents by choosing the right cabinet.
Table of Contents
Understanding Color Guidelines
Safety storage cabinets are designed to ensure materials stored inside the cabinet don’t come in contact or get mixed with materials outside the cabinet, potentially leading to a fire or explosion. They feature leveling legs for stability and steel shelves, which can support up to 350 lbs., that are sloped to direct spills away from stored contents. Safety storage cabinets are marked with a label and are color coded to distinguish the material being stored. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines, the color code is:
- Yellow for typical flammable items
- Red for aerosols and paints
- Blue for acid-based liquids
- Green for pesticides
NFPA Compliance
The following are NFPA guidelines with which safety storage cabinets must comply:
3404.3.2.1.1 Materials. Unlisted metal cabinets shall be constructed of steel having a thickness of not less than 0.044" (1.12mm, 18 gauge). The cabinet (including the door) shall be double walled with 1½" (38mm) airspace between the walls. Joints shall be riveted or welded and shall be tight fitting.
3404.3.2.1.2 Labeling. Cabinets shall be provided with a conspicuous label in red letters on contrasting background which reads: FLAMMABLE—KEEP FIRE AWAY.
3404.3.2.1.3 Doors. Doors shall be well fitted, self-closing, and equipped with a three-point latch.
3404.3.2.1.4 Bottom. The bottom of the cabinet shall be liquid tight to a height of at least 2" (51mm).
Storage Guidelines
Keep containers tightly closed, and isolated from heat, electrical equipment, sparks, and open flame. Do not store in temperatures above 120°F. Always ensure safety storage cabinets are placed in an authorized location (an outside, detached safety storage cabinet is preferred) with adequate ventilation. Cabinet contents should be stored in tightly sealed containers and protected from excessive heat, moisture, foreign materials, sparks, and sources of ignition.
NOTE: Many West Coast states, Hawaii, and Alaska may follow NFPA requirements, as well as those of some local cities and/or counties. Also, most local authorities require the use of self-closing doors. To determine if you are required to have self-closing doors on your storage safety cabinet, check with your local/state fire marshal or the authority having jurisdiction.
To safely store flammable, corrosive, or combustible liquids within your safety storage cabinets, check out our offering of safety storage containers as well as our wide selection of safety cabinet accessories.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.
