No Products in the Cart
Not sure what you need? Please call our team on 0333 999 7171 or email sales@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk
Not sure what you need? Please call our team on 0333 999 7171 or email sales@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk
In the manufacturing industry, workplace safety is non-negotiable, including how hazardous substances are stored. One overlooked chemical spill or unlabelled drum could result in HSE penalties, insurance issues, or a serious incident affecting staff. That's where COSHH storage cabinets come in.
This guide is designed specifically for procurement officers looking to ensure COSHH compliance through smart, compliant purchasing. We'll walk you through what COSHH regulations require, what to look for in a cabinet, and how to choose the right solution for your facility.
What Is COSHH and Who Needs to Comply?
Understanding COSHH Regulations in the UK
COSHH stands for Control of Substances Hazardous to Health—a set of legal requirements enforced by the UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE). It applies to any business that uses or stores substances that could pose health risks, including:
Solvents
Paints and adhesives
Cleaning agents
Acids and alkalis
Oils and lubricants
Manufacturers are legally required to assess and control these risks, including proper storage in COSHH-approved cabinets.
Which Industries Require COSHH Cabinets?
COSHH storage cabinets are critical in the following:
Automotive and aerospace
Chemical and paint manufacturing
Engineering and metalworking
Food and beverage processing
Facilities and plant maintenance
If your workplace handles any potentially harmful substance, COSHH-compliant storage isn't just best practice—it's a legal necessity.
What Are COSHH Storage Cabinets?
COSHH cabinets are specially designed steel storage units that contain and isolate hazardous substances. They help minimise exposure, prevent leaks or spills, and protect substances from unauthorised personnel or ignition sources.
Key Features of COSHH-Compliant Cabinets
All COSHH cabinets from Strip Curtains Direct are built with compliance in mind:
✅ Leakproof sump/bunded base to capture spills
✅ Powder-coated steel construction for corrosion resistance
✅ Clearly marked with BS EN ISO 7010 hazard signage
✅ Reinforced doors with secure 3-point locking
🔗 Example: COSHH Floor Cupboard – 900mm Wide
Perfect for small to mid-sized storage requirements in workshops or maintenance areas.
Types of Cabinets Available
Strip Curtains Direct offers a versatile range to meet different needs:
Wall Mounted COSHH Cabinets – Save floor space and keep substances off the ground.
Floor Standing Units – Ideal for storing larger volumes securely.
COSHH Floor Cupboards with Adjustable Shelves – Customisable internal layout for various containers.
How to Choose the Right COSHH Storage Cabinet
Match the Cabinet to the Substance
Start by identifying:
Is it flammable, corrosive, toxic, or reactive?
How much of it needs to be stored?
What containers are used—bottles, drums, or tubs?
COSHH regulations require that incompatible substances be stored separately.
Consider Size and Layout
Small units like the wall-mounted cabinet are ideal for light usage or point-of-use applications
Larger cabinets like the 1200mm Floor Cupboard are suited for bulk storage in centralised locations
Placement and Accessibility
Keep cabinets:
Away from direct heat or ignition sources
Close to workstations for frequently used chemicals
Accessible for emergency spill response
Best Practices for Using COSHH Storage Cabinets
Use Labels and Maintain Inventories
Clearly label every chemical and its hazard category
Keep up-to-date inventories to support audits and inspections
Train Staff on Safe Handling
Only trained staff should access COSHH cabinets. Training should cover:
Proper PPE
Handling procedures
Spill response protocols
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Inspect:
Hinges, seals, and locking mechanisms
Spill sumps and cleanliness
Visibility of hazard signage
Avoid These Common Compliance Pitfalls
Even with COSHH cabinets in place, mistakes happen. Watch out for:
❌ Storing flammables in non-ventilated units
❌ Mixing acids and alkalis
❌ Overloading shelves beyond capacity
❌ Missing or damaged hazard labels
Conclusion: Invest in Safe, Compliant Storage
Choosing the right COSHH storage cabinets is more than a box-ticking exercise—it's vital to your workplace safety culture. Investing in compliant, high-quality cabinets reduces risk, protects your people, and keeps you on the right side of the law.
🔗 Shop COSHH Cabinets Now
Explore the full range of compliant hazardous storage solutions:
Let’s talk about the right COSHH storage for your facility. Contact our expert team to find the perfect compliant solution:
📧 Email: sales@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk
📞 Phone: +44 (0)333 999 7171
