Selecting the Right Chemical Storage Cupboard for Your Production Facility - SafetyBuyer

The use of chemicals in production is often indispensable. From automotive manufacturing to pharmaceuticals, chemicals play a pivotal role in engineering and innovation. However, the storage of these chemicals comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities, particularly in adhering to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). This article guides you through the intricate process of selecting the right chemical storage cupboard for your production facility, ensuring both safety and compliance with COSHH regulations.

The necessity of a COSHH risk assessment

A COSHH risk assessment is not a one-size-fits-all solution but is tailored to the specific needs and risks of your manufacturing facility. The risk assessment involves several stages, including identifying the chemical hazards, noting all persons impacted, listing relevant risks associated with the hazards and assessing corrective actions. 

The outcome of this assessment will provide a roadmap for the kind of chemical storage solutions that best suit your facility. It minimises the risk posed by storing hazardous substances and ensures that you are in line with the hierarchy of controls set by COSHH.

Identifying performance requirements

Once the COSHH risk assessment is complete, the next step is to identify the performance requirements of your chemical storage solution. These requirements are directly influenced by the hazards identified during the risk assessment. For instance, if your facility handles flammable chemicals, your storage solution must include both a safety container and a storage cabinet designed to contain flammable substances. Similarly, if your storage area will also serve as a decanting station, additional safety measures such as ventilation and spill containment must be considered.

Types of chemical storage solutions

The market offers a variety of chemical storage solutions tailored to meet different needs and regulations. Among the most common are chemical storage tanks, corrosive cabinets and bunded chemical storage. Each type comes with its own set of features designed to handle specific kinds of chemicals. For example, corrosive cabinets are made with materials that resist corrosion, making them ideal for storing acids and bases. Bunded chemical storage, on the other hand, offers a secondary containment system to capture spills, thereby minimising environmental impact. Understanding the types of storage solutions available is crucial for making an informed decision.

Customisation options

COSHH cabinet suppliers, such as SafetyBuyer, offer various storage options to better suit the specific needs of your facility. These can range from adjustable shelving and door positions to varying dimensions and internal layouts. Customisation ensures that your storage solution not only meets safety regulations but also maximises operational efficiency. For instance, if your facility has limited space, a customised storage solution can be designed to make the most of the available area while still adhering to safety standards.

Security measures

Ensuring the security of your chemical storage area is not just a matter of compliance; it is a necessity for the safety of your employees and the environment. Security measures can include a variety of features such as secure locks, warning labels and catchment areas for spill containment. Some advanced storage solutions even offer electronic access control systems to monitor and restrict entry to authorised personnel only. Implementing robust security measures is a vital step in mitigating risks associated with the storage of hazardous substances.

Find the right COSHH cabinet for you

Selecting the right hazardous substance storage cabinet is not just a regulatory requirement; it's essential for the safety of your employees and the environment. For businesses aiming to be COSHH compliant, consider suppliers that specialise in COSHH cabinets to ensure you're getting a product that meets all regulatory standards.

Browse the range of COSHH cabinets from SafetyBuyer and become COSHH-compliant today. For more information about how we can help you increase the safety of your production facility, contact our team today on 0800 043 0161 or fill out our contact form.