Choosing the Right Dangerous Goods Cabinet for Your Facility

Storing hazardous substances safely is a fundamental requirement for laboratories, healthcare environments, and industrial workplaces. Whether you’re handling flammable liquids, corrosive substances, or cytotoxic materials, choosing the right dangerous goods cabinet, chemical storage cabinet, or cytotoxic cabinets is essential for both safety and compliance.

But with so many options and regulations, how do you know what’s right for your facility? This guide explores the key factors to consider when selecting a cabinet—from cabinet type and size to Australian standards and operational compatibility.

Understand the Types of Dangerous Goods Cabinets

Different classes of chemicals require different chemical storage cabinets and solutions. Selecting the wrong cabinet can lead to safety risks, chemical reactions, or non-compliance with safety regulations.

Here are the main types of dangerous goods cabinets:

• Flammable Liquids Cabinets (Class 3): Designed for storing flammable substances like ethanol, acetone, and petrol, these cabinets typically feature fire-resistant construction, self-closing doors, and integrated spill containment.
• Corrosive Substance Cabinets (Class 8): These cabinets are lined with corrosion-resistant materials to handle acids, alkalis, and cleaning chemicals. They often include ventilated shelving and bunding for spills.
• Toxic Substance Cabinets (Class 6): Used to store pesticides, reagents, and other toxic chemicals. These are built to reduce exposure risk and contain potential leaks.
• Oxidising Agent Cabinets (Class 5.1): For chemicals that may intensify fires or react dangerously with other substances. These cabinets must be clearly labelled and kept away from incompatible materials.
• Cytotoxic Cabinets: Specifically designed for storing cytotoxic and antineoplastic drugs, these cabinets provide protection for healthcare workers and lab staff from exposure to hazardous drug compounds.

Knowing the chemical classes you work with is the first step to choosing the appropriate chemical storage cabinets.

Determine the Right Size for Your Facility

Dangerous goods cabinets come in various sizes—from compact 30-litre models to large 250-litre freestanding units. Choosing the right size ensures safe storage while supporting workflow and accessibility.

Consider the following when sizing your cabinet:

• Volume and type of substances stored
• Frequency of use
• Storage location within your facility
• Segregation needs for incompatible chemicals

Overfilling a cabinet can block ventilation and increase the risk of spillage. It’s often safer and more efficient to install multiple smaller cabinets throughout your facility rather than relying on one oversized unit.

Meet Australian Compliance Standards

In Australia, all chemical storage solutions must meet specific standards and regulatory requirements. Selecting a cabinet that complies with these standards is not optional—it’s essential for legal and operational safety.

Relevant Australian Standards include:

• AS 1940-2017 – Storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
• AS/NZS 4452:1997 – Storage and handling of toxic substances
• AS 3780-2008 – Storage and handling of corrosive substances
• AS/NZS 5026:2012 – Storage and handling of oxidising agents
• Safe Work Australia – Model Work Health and Safety Regulations

Be sure to check for compliance labels and technical documentation when purchasing. Cabinets that don’t meet these standards may fail to protect staff or meet audit requirements.

Consider Workflow and Integration

A well-chosen cabinet should support your daily operations, not hinder them. Placement, accessibility, ventilation, and mobility should all be taken into account.

Ask yourself:

• Does the cabinet’s location allow easy and safe access?
• Will it be ventilated correctly to minimise fume buildup?
• Is there sufficient space to open the doors fully?
• Can it be locked securely?
• Do you need internal lighting or integrated alarms?

Also consider compatibility with surrounding equipment, traffic flow, and ergonomic handling—especially in high-use environments.

Smart Storage is Safe Storage

Whether you’re dealing with flammables, corrosives, or cytotoxic agents, investing in the right dangerous goods cabinet, chemical storage cabinet, or cytotoxic cabinets is a vital part of maintaining a compliant and safe facility. By choosing a cabinet from a leading lab equipment supplier that matches your substances, meets Australian Standards, and supports your operational needs, you’re taking an important step toward protecting your team, reducing risk, and maintaining a clean and professional working environment.