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Do you need a flammable storage cabinet?

The use of flammable substances are part of many businesses day to day functions. Properly using & storing these liquids is imperative to protect employees & the environment. COSHH are a set of guidelines set out by the HSE to help businesses use, store and dispose of these substances safely.

Flammable and combustible liquids don't actually catch fire themselves, it's the vapours they give off that burn. The flash point is the minimum temperature at which a liquid forms a vapour above its surface in sufficient concentration that it can be ignited.

Flammable liquids fall into these categories:

Flammable

Materials whose vapours form potentially explosive mixtures with air and which are flammable in the presence of a ignition source; with a flash point between 23 – 60°c. Examples include - Syrene (used in the manufacturing of polystyrene) & turpentine oil which is used in soap and cosmetics.

Highly Flammable

Materials whose vapours form explosive mixtures when in the presence of oxygen & an ignition source, with a flash point below 23°c. Examples include acetone and petrol.

Extremely Flammable

The vapours form explosive mixtures when in the presence of oxygen & an ignition source with a flash point below 0°c and boiling point below 35°c. Examples include acetylene, and diethyl ether. Acetylene is used in automotive part manufacturing and fabrication of other metal parts. Diethyl ether is used as a solvent for waxes, fats, oils, perfumes.

Which flammable storage cabinet do you need?

If you have carried out your COSHHH assessment and require a flammable storage cabinet we have a wide range available. After evaluating the risks of the chemicals you need to store and following the storage guidelines you’ll be ready to choose your cabinet. The type of cabinet will depend on how flammable the materials you’re storing are.

Our most popular flammable cabinet is suitable for segregating flammable to highly flammable materials. It is designed with 0.9mm thick steel, COSHH labelling, perforated shelves and sump tray to collect spillages. It is designed maintain its integrity during the early minutes of exposure to fire.

If you’re storing highly flammable materials you might want something a little more robust such as our Justrite cabinets. They are FM approved and designed to withstand fire for a minimum of 10 minutes. Their unique features include 1mm thick double steel walls, with 1.5 inches or insulating airspace for fire resistance. They also have dual vents with flame arresters which are effective in preventing the transmission of a flame.

Where should you keep the cabinets?

Your COSHH assessment will help you identify exactly what you need and how it should be stored. Depending on when and how the flammable substances are used in your business will impact where they’re stored. You might need large cabinets to stored larger quantities of the chemicals and smaller cabinets which can easily be accessed in work areas which will carry smaller quantities.

The guiding principle is that only the minimum needed for frequently occurring tasks or quantity needed for ½ day or one shift should be present in the workroom/working area. We have wall mounted flammable cabinets which are ideal for this type of storage.

The maximum quantity that may be stored in a flammable storage cabinet is no more than 50 litres for extremely, highly flammable and those flammable liquids with a flashpoint below the maximum temperature of the working area; and no more than 250 litres for other flammable liquids with a higher flashpoint of up to 55°C.

It is the responsibility of the employer to carry out a COSHH assessment and ensure that the cabinets meet the legal requirements for the chemicals being stored, but if you need any help or advice choosing a cabinet, our team are happy to help.

Our high quality hazardous storage cabinets and containers offer a secure solution for housing chemicals, flammable liquids and other hazardous substances, ensuring the safety of your employees and workspace.

Why choose Manutan for your hazardous storage cabinets

Crafted from robust materials and featuring advanced safety features, our cabinets comply with stringent COSHH regulations to provide you and your workforce with peace of mind when storing hazardous materials. Explore our wide range of options to find the perfect fit for your specific storage requirements.

Which hazardous substance cabinet is right for you?

We offer a variety of hazardous storage solutions to suit all work environments. Whether you’re looking for a small steel worktop COSHH hazardous storage cabinet for work areas with limited space or a freestanding flammable and chemical storage cupboard with height adjustable shelves for larger spaces, we’re confident you’ll find the right storage solution for all your hazardous materials.

FAQs

What is hazardous storage?

Hazardous storage encompasses an array of containment solutions such as cabinets, cupboard sand containers, designed to securely store hazardous chemicals and liquids. This form of storage safeguards both employees and employers in various work settings, as these substances can pose significant health risks. Many workplaces handle hazardous materials daily, making it essential for companies to adhere to COSHH regulations. These guidelines aim to protect individuals and the environment from harm by ensuring a safe and healthy work environment through the proper management of hazardous substances.

What materials are considered hazardous?

COSHH regulations cover a range of hazardous materials and substances which pose a health and safety risk to people, property and the environment. This includes:

  • Chemicals
  • Products containing chemicals
  • Flammable liquids
  • Toxic gases and asphyxiating gases
  • Corrosives

All hazardous materials should feature clear labelling or pictograms which identify the relevant hazard category.

How to store hazardous materials

  • Select a suitable hazardous storage cabinet or container suitable for your materials and work environment.
  • Organise the contents of the container carefully and ensure overall separation.
  • Dispose of dangerous waste containers frequently.
  • Include clear guidelines for secure handling of the substances.
  • Proper labelling and signage are crucial. Refrain from making assumptions and guarantee that your team is aware of the safety requirements for handling the materials they are working with.

What are the different types of COSHH hazardous storage cupboards?

What legislation regulates hazardous material storage?

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulates the safe handling and storage of hazardous chemicals. Employers are responsible for ensuring all employees understand and adhere to COSHH regulations and requirements to decrease the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.

How to store solvents

Solvents in paint removers, pesticides and adhesives can pose significant health risks. To store solvents safely, use a well-ventilated area and keep them in tightly sealed, clearly labelled containers. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources and ignition risks. Place solvents on sturdy, non-combustible shelves or in designated storage cabinets. Separate incompatible materials and ensure proper secondary containment to prevent spills. Regularly inspect storage areas for leaks, damage or deterioration, and ensure all items are clearly labelled.

Why do hazardous materials and substances need to be stored separately?

Hazardous materials must be stored separately to prevent chemical reactions, fires, explosions or toxic releases caused by incompatible substances mixing. Proper segregation minimises the risk of accidents, protects human health and reduces environmental damage.

How to maintain hazardous materials cabinets?

Regularly inspect for leaks, damage and corrosion, and clean up any spillage straight away to reduce the risk of harmful liquids building up in the sump. Ensure proper ventilation, secure doors and confirm compatibility with stored materials. Verify that labels and signage remain clear and routinely review inventory for expired or unnecessary items.

Do you offer free next day delivery?

Whatever the size of your order, Manutan is committed to delivering all stocked products to UK Mainland addresses on a free, next day service when purchased before 4:00pm.

Find out more about hazardous materials storage

Read more about storing hazardous materials in our article How to Store Hazardous Materials Correctly.

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