Do I Really Need a Dangerous Goods Storage Cabinet?

If you're storing chemicals, flammable liquids, or even basic cleaning supplies at your workplace, you might be wondering:

"Do I actually need a dangerous goods container or is that overkill?"

It’s a good question and one we get a lot at SAYKA. The short answer? If you’re storing any hazardous materials, yes, you probably do. But let’s break it down so you can make the right call for your business.

What Is a Dangerous Goods Cabinet, Exactly?

A dangerous goods cabinet is a purpose-built, fully compliant storage solution for chemicals and substances that pose a health, fire, explosion, or environmental risk.

We’re talking about things like:

• Paint thinners, solvents, fuel, oils
  
  
• Industrial cleaners and corrosives
  
  
• Flammable liquids and aerosols
  
  
• Pesticides, fertilisers, or peroxides
  
  
• Acids, toxic substances, and other Class 3–6 chemicals
  
  

These aren’t just “risky” materials - they’re legally classified as dangerous goods, and by law, they must be stored properly to reduce hazards on-site.

5 Questions To Ask Yourself:

1. Do I store or use flammable, toxic, or corrosive substances?
   If your answer is yes, even for small quantities, you’ll likely need a Class-specific cabinet that complies with Australian Standards like AS1940 or AS3780.
   
   
2. Are chemicals being kept in a general cupboard or shed?
   If they’re in plastic tubs or old filing cabinets, they’re likely at risk of leaking, mixing, or igniting, and that’s a serious compliance and safety issue.
   
   
3. Could a spill or leak cause harm to people, property, or the environment?
   Yes. Dangerous goods cabinets have leak-proof sumps and sealed doors to contain any spills and prevent contamination.
   
   
4. Do I have staff or visitors on-site who could be exposed?
   Regulations require you to store dangerous goods safely in lockable, ventilated cabinets that prevent unauthorised access and exposure.
   
   
5. Would I pass a safety audit or inspection today?
   Using the right cabinet can help you meet WHS obligations, protect your insurance coverage, and avoid costly penalties.
   
   

What Should Be Stored in a Dangerous Goods Cabinet?

Depending on the cabinet type, you can store:

• Class 3: Flammable Liquids (e.g. fuel, acetone, thinners)
  
  
• Class 5: Oxidising Agents or Organic Peroxides
  
  
• Class 6: Toxic Substances (e.g. pesticides, mercury)
  
  
• Class 8: Corrosive Substances (e.g. bleach, caustic soda)
  
  
• Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous goods (e.g. Lithium-ion batteries. Also see our Battery Charging Storage Cabinets)
  
  

These cabinets are designed with fire resistance, ventilation, bunding (spill containment), and clear labelling to meet Australian safety standards.

Important: Not all substances can be stored together! A key benefit of using multiple cabinets is the ability to separate incompatible chemicals safely. Read more about chemical segregation here.

What Makes a Compliant Cabinet?

At SAYKA, our dangerous goods cabinets are:

• Built to Australian Standards (AS1940, AS3780, AS5026)
  
  
• Double-walled for fire protection with a 40 mm air gap
  
  
• Fitted with self-closing, lockable doors
  
  
• Designed with a 150 mm deep liquid-tight sump
  
  
• Clearly labelled with hazard placards
  
  
• Available for indoor or outdoor use

Explore our full range of certified Dangerous Goods Cabinets to find the right fit.

Final Thought

If you’re handling flammable, corrosive, or toxic products, even just occasionally, it’s not just smart to use a dangerous goods cabinet. It’s required. The risks of improper storage, from workplace injuries to fines, simply aren’t worth it.

Still Not Sure? Let’s Work It Out

If you’re not sure whether what you store qualifies as “dangerous goods,” or which cabinet you need, that’s okay. We’re here to help.

Contact us on 1300 088 089 or sales@sayka.com.au