BS EN 14470-1:2004 — Flammable Storage Cabinets Standard Explained
BS EN 14470-1:2004 is the European standard for safety storage cabinets for flammable liquids. In the UK, compliance with this standard is the primary method of demonstrating that a flammable liquid storage cabinet meets the requirements of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) for contained storage within a work area. It is the standard specified by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for this type of equipment.
Cabinet Classification — Type 1 vs Type 2
| Feature | Type 1 | Type 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fire resistance | 15 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Max capacity | 250 litres total (50L per shelf) | 250 litres total (50L per shelf) |
| Self-closing door | Required (max 10 sec close) | Required (max 10 sec close) |
| Ventilation bung | Standard (2 x DN50 ports) | Standard (2 x DN50 ports) |
| Typical use | Standard DSEAR compliance | Lower-risk applications |
| DSEAR Zone suitability | Zone 1 and 2 adjacent storage | Zone 2 adjacent storage only |
Construction Requirements
The standard specifies minimum wall thickness, door construction, hinge specifications, and floor pan (sump) integrity. Key requirements include:
- Double-wall construction with mineral wool or equivalent insulation between walls
- Integral sump with minimum 10% of total cabinet capacity (or 10 litres — whichever is greater)
- Self-closing, self-latching doors — must close within 10 seconds from any open position
- Temperature rise limitation — interior must not exceed 180°C during fire resistance test
- Pressure relief vents — to prevent cabinet explosion during fire exposure
Ventilation Options
Cabinets come with DN50 (50mm) ventilation ports, supplied with steel bungs. Three approaches:
- Bungs in place (no ventilation): Acceptable for low-volatility flammables (H226). Vapour accumulation risk with highly volatile solvents.
- Natural cross-ventilation: Connect ports to external atmosphere via non-combustible ducting. Low airflow, suitable for moderate volatility.
- Active LEV extraction: Connect to Local Exhaust Ventilation system. Required for H224/H225 liquids in enclosed spaces. Ensures continuous vapour removal below LEL.
DSEAR Compliance in Practice
Under DSEAR Regulation 7, employers must eliminate or reduce risks from dangerous substances so far as reasonably practicable. A BS EN 14470-1 Type 1 cabinet positioned correctly (outside ATEX Zone 0, with appropriate separation from ignition sources) is accepted by the HSE as demonstrating adequate control for storage quantities up to 250 litres within a work area.
BS EN 14470-2 — Aerosol Cabinets
BS EN 14470-2 is the companion standard for safety storage cabinets for aerosol dispensers. Aerosols present a different hazard profile (pressurised containers, propellant flammability) and require different cabinet design, particularly regarding pressure relief and internal volume management.
Last reviewed: April 2026 | Need expert advice? Call 01744 520 110 or browse our flammable storage cabinets