Every researcher and lab personnel knows a messy lab is an accident waiting to happen. But beyond aesthetics, proper storage is crucial for safety, organisation, and maximising lab efficiency. Just like putting on a lab coat is essential, equipping your laboratory with the right lab storage cabinets is also crucial for safety and a productive work environment. 

In this blog post, we will equip you with the knowledge to conquer storage chaos and select the perfect storage cabinets for your needs. We'll start by explaining storage cabinets and then delve into the key factors to consider when choosing one.

What Are Lab Storage Cabinets?

These are specialised cabinets that are used to store laboratory equipment, chemicals, and samples to keep them safe and secure. These cabinets are made of durable materials that resist corrosion and damage from chemicals. They are also equipped with lock mechanisms to prevent unauthorised access. The lab storage cabinets store many items, such as flammable liquids, corrosive materials, hazardous waste, biological agents, laboratory glassware, acids and bases.

Benefits of Using Lab Storage Cabinets

These cabinets are not just for storing the chemicals in labs; they enhance overall accessibility. They also provide advanced features that can improve the lab personnel's safety. Some of the key benefits of using storage cabinets are listed below.

1. Improved Safety

These cabinets protect users from exposure to harmful chemicals. By keeping chemicals and other dangerous substances safely contained, storage cabinets prevent accidents and injuries.

2. Enhanced Organisation

They also keep your lab organised and efficient. Researchers can easily access the needed materials by having a designated place for everything and avoid spending extra time searching for lost items.

3. Reduced Clutter

There is too much equipment in the lab, and you need help finding the one you need at the time of the experiment. Lab storage cabinets can help eliminate this clutter in your lab. This can improve safety and make it easier for scientists to move around and work efficiently.

4. Compliance With Regulations

Many laboratories are required to comply with safety regulations that mandate the proper storage of harmful materials. These storage cabinets can help your laboratory meet those regulations.

Factors To Consider When Selecting The Storage Cabinet 

Laboratory storage cabinets are essential to ensure safety, proper organisation, and efficiency in the lab. But when you have too many options available, choosing the ideal cabinets can feel overwhelming. Here are some of the essential factors to consider when selecting the storage cabinet for your lab.

1. Analyse Your Labs Storage Requirements

Before purchasing lab storage cabinets directly from the market, it is important to understand your lab's storage requirements. This can help you identify your needs and prioritise the best solution, which will benefit you not only in the short term but also in the long term.

  • Inventory Creation

Dedicate the time to meticulously listing all the materials you plan to store in the cabinets. Categorise them based on requirement level: flammable liquids, acids, bases, biological agents, or a combination thereof.

  • Frequency Assessment

Evaluate how often you'll access these materials and prioritise easy-reach storage solutions for frequently used items like everyday chemicals or glassware. Equipment that is not frequently used can go in cabinets with standard doors.

  • Space Measurement

Grab a tape and measure the space available in your lab. Factors in doorways, existing equipment, and traffic flow to determine the optimal cabinet layout. Aim for maximum storage capacity while ensuring ample room for scientists to move around safely.

2. Prioritise Safety

Safety should never be compromised. Research and identify safety regulations for storing the specific materials you have in your laboratory. Look for guidelines set by organisations like OSHA (Occupational Safety And Health Administration) or NEFA (National Fire Protection Association). 

The material of the laboratory storage cabinet should be compatible with the chemicals to be stored in your lab. Also, look for cabinets with features that minimise risk.

3. Optimising Usability

Choose laboratory storage cabinets with enough space to comfortably accommodate all your materials, equipment and apparatus. Consider cabinets with adjustable shelves to accommodate items of varying sizes. Implement a clear and logical labelling system for shelves and containers to enhance organisation and save time searching for equipment.

4. Accessibility

Easy access to stored material is critical for efficiency—prioritise cabinets with features that promote flexible use, like adjustable shelves for storing different-sized items. Provide easy access to frequently used materials and prevent excessive bending or reaching. And ensure well-placed doors.

5. Durability And Maintenance

Invest in cabinets made of high-quality, durable materials that can withstand potential chemical spills or exposure. Consider cabinets with easy-to-clean surfaces to ensure long-lasting functionality. A well-maintained cabinet is a safe and reliable cabinet.

6. Ventilation

Proper ventilation within the cabinets might be necessary for some chemicals. Look for cabinets with built-in ventilation systems or those compatible with external ventilation connections. This will ensure the security of the lab personnel.

7. Fire Safety

Depending on the materials you're storing, fire safety features like fireproof cabinet materials or automatic fire suspension systems are crucial. It's always better to be extra cautious when dealing with fire hazards.

By following these steps and carefully considering all factors, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect storage cabinets. These silent guardians will keep your lab safe, organised, and efficient, fostering a productive and secure environment for scientific exploration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lab storage cabinets are more than just furniture; they are essential safety equipment in a laboratory setting. Choosing the suitable cabinets is critical in creating a safe, organised, and efficient work environment. With suitable cabinets in place, your lab will be well-equipped to foster scientific exploration and experimentation while keeping safety and efficiency at the forefront.

Santech Labs is India's leading manufacturer and supplier of modular lab furniture and storage cabinets. We provide complete solutions for modern labs. With our innovative technology, we can transform your lab to your liking. We are an ISO-certified company having more than 25 years of experience in this industry.