COSHH Cabinet Buying Guide UK: How to Choose the Right Chemical Storage (2026)

Choosing the correct COSHH cabinet is critical for workplaces handling hazardous substances. UK employers must comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) and ensure chemicals are stored safely, securely and in accordance with risk assessments.

This 2026 COSHH cabinet buying guide UK businesses can rely on explains how to select compliant chemical storage cabinets for industrial, commercial and educational environments.

What Is a COSHH Cabinet?

What Is a COSHH Cabinet?

A COSHH cabinet is a purpose-built steel storage unit designed to safely contain hazardous substances such as chemicals, solvents, cleaning agents and flammable materials.

• Clearly labelled hazard signage
• Lockable doors
• Spill retention sump
• Heavy-duty steel construction

When Is a COSHH Cabinet Required?

When Do You Need a COSHH Cabinet?

If your workplace stores substances classified as hazardous under COSHH regulations, suitable storage is required. This applies to:

• Factories & workshops
• Schools & laboratories
• Hospitals
• Facilities management sites
• Maintenance departments

Types of COSHH Cabinets

Types of COSHH Cabinets UK

• Standard COSHH Cabinets: For general hazardous substances
• Flammable Liquid Cabinets: Fire-rated protection
• Acid & Alkali Cabinets: Corrosion-resistant lining
• Pesticide Cabinets: Secure agricultural storage

Size & Capacity Planning

Choosing the Right Size COSHH Cabinet

When selecting cabinet size, consider:

• Total volume of substances
• Container dimensions
• Spill containment capacity
• Future storage growth

Fire Resistance Requirements

Fire-Rated COSHH Cabinets

Where flammable liquids are stored, fire-rated cabinets may be required to comply with DSEAR assessments and fire safety guidance.

Construction & Compliance Features

Key Compliance Features to Look For

• Heavy-gauge steel body
• Integrated sump base for spill containment
• Ventilation compatibility
• Clearly visible hazard labelling
• Secure locking system

COSHH vs DSEAR: What’s the Difference?

COSHH vs DSEAR: Understanding Your Responsibilities

COSHH focuses on controlling exposure to hazardous substances. DSEAR addresses fire and explosion risks associated with dangerous substances. Some workplaces must comply with both.

Installation Considerations

Where Should a COSHH Cabinet Be Installed?

• Well-ventilated areas
• Away from ignition sources
• On level surfaces
• Accessible for inspection

Common Buying Mistakes

Common COSHH Cabinet Buying Mistakes

• Choosing insufficient capacity
• Ignoring fire resistance requirements
• Mixing incompatible chemicals
• Buying non-compliant imported units
• Failing to review risk assessments

Explore Compliant COSHH Cabinets

Compliant COSHH Cabinets UK

Browse our full range of COSHH Cabinets and compliant Steel Storage Cabinets designed for UK industrial and commercial environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are COSHH cabinets mandatory?
Where hazardous substances are stored, suitable containment is required under COSHH regulations.

Do COSHH cabinets need to be fire rated?
Only where flammable liquids are stored or risk assessments require additional fire protection.