11 Foolproof Tips for Keeping Your Safety Storage Cabinet Just Right

By Dan Carver
Mar 6, 2018
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Purchasing a safety storage cabinet is the first step towards safe flammable chemical storage. Improper installation, operation or maintenance will compromise your safety cabinet. Follow these 11 tips to keep your Justrite safety cabinet just right.

Safety Storage Cabinet: Installation Tips

Proper installation of your Justrite safety storage cabinet ensures that it performs as expected during a fire.

Use the adjustable levelling feet to level the cabinet on the floor. Failing to take this step is the number one reason that doors do not close smoothly.
Never drill into a safety storage cabinet or modify it in any way. This compromises the cabinet's fire resistance. It also violates the FM Approval and the Justrite warranty.
Most installations do not require the use of vents. But if you plan to use vents, engage a professional engineer so the cabinet's fire resistance is not affected.
Regulations require clear signage on safety storage cabinets to identify its contents. Justrite applies its exclusive Haz-Alert™ warning labels during the manufacturing process. Check that labels are in place and visible. Order replacement labels if needed.

Safety Storage Cabinet: Operation Tips

Removing fuel sources is important for fire prevention. Housekeeping standards play a major role in reducing the risk of fire in and around a safety cabinet.

Always seal containers tightly before placing into a safety storage cabinet. Wipe any excess liquid from the container to prevent spills onto the shelves.
Clean spills immediately with mild soap. Take note of the chemical hazards - e.g., neutralize acid spills before cleaning. Always consult the chemical's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for guidance.
Justrite safety storage cabinets feature a leakproof sump. Clean the sump using sorbents and rags, but never leave these materials inside the cabinet. Used sorbents pose a fire risk. Always use a compatible sorbent for your chemicals. Cellulose materials used in some universal sorbents react with certain acids, which could cause a fire.

Safety Storage Cabinet: Maintenance Tips

Identify problems before they compromise the safety of a chemical storage cabinet by performing regular maintenance checks.

Check the operation of doors regularly. Visually inspect each of the three-point latches. Lubricate hinges annually - but be sure to select a lubricant that is not reactive with the cabinet's stored chemicals. Refer to the chemical's SDS for potential reactive situations.
For self-close models, make sure the doors index in correct order, and latch at three points when released. Self-close doors have fusible links, which melt in the heat of a fire. Check to see if the fusible links are damaged or missing. If so, replacement fusible links are available to order.
Inspect cabinet shelves for dents. Replace dented shelves to prevent a collapse under heavy load.
Inspect cabinets for dents and rust and replace if necessary. Excessive rust reduces the metal thickness and compromises its fire resistance. Dents have the same impact.