Chemical storage cabinets

Labman Instruments is official distributor for Erlab and Exacta ductless and ducted chemical storage cabinets for Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg.

exacta chemical storage cabinet with compartments for flammable chemicals, toxics, acids and bases

Exacta Chemical Storage Cabinets: Premium Fire‑Proof Safety & Anti-Corrosion Safety Storage Solutions

Exacta is a recognized leader in chemical storage cabinet innovation, offering an extensive portfolio of fire‑proof safety cabinets, including models for acid storage, flammable storage, and safety storage cabinets. Engineered for laboratories, industrial sites, and educational environments, their robust designs meet key industry standards such as EN 14470‑1 (30 & 90-minute fire resistance), ensuring optimal protection for hazardous substances. With features like integrated spill control, thermal fuses, airtight sealing, and fume extraction ready construction, Exacta provides secure, compliant, and flexible storage solutions tailored to your needs.

Certifications & Applicable European Standards

Exacta flammable storage cabinets are independently certified by Bureau Veritas to EN 14470-1 Type 90, the most stringent European standard for fire-resistant storage of flammable liquids. The “Type 90” classification ensures a proven 90 minutes of fire resistance under standardized furnace test conditions, giving users and emergency responders a crucial safety buffer.

The standard requires cabinets to limit internal temperature rise, feature self-closing doors that automatically shut in case of fire, and include leak-proof containment trays to prevent chemical spills from spreading. Ventilation connections must also remain intact under fire exposure. These rigorous criteria ensure flammable liquids remain safely contained, even in worst-case fire scenarios.

This certification applies to all Exacta flammable liquid cabinets—freestanding, under-bench, vertical drawer, and drum models—guaranteeing that they meet the highest European safety benchmark. With independent Bureau Veritas approval, Exacta customers can demonstrate compliance to inspectors and insurance providers while maintaining maximum workplace safety.

Exacta gas cylinder cabinets are certified by Bureau Veritas to the EN 14470-2 standard, which sets performance requirements for fire-safe storage of pressurised gas cylinders up to 220 litres in volume. The standard is designed to ensure that cylinders retain integrity and valves remain functional during a fire, preventing catastrophic explosions or toxic gas release.

The certification process includes fire-testing the cabinet to confirm that the internal temperature remains below critical limits for the gas being stored. It also specifies construction requirements such as fire-resistant insulation, stable housing for heavy cylinders, mechanical ventilation or ducting options, and automatic door closure systems.

This standard applies to all Exacta cabinets designed for storing compressed gas cylinders used in laboratories, workshops, and production facilities. Independent Bureau Veritas certification provides proof of compliance with European legislation and ensures that users can safely integrate pressurised gas storage into their facilities.

Exacta chemical storage cabinets and laboratory furniture are certified by Bureau Veritas according to EN 16121, the European standard for non-domestic storage units. This regulation ensures that cabinets are mechanically safe, structurally stable, and durable enough to withstand intensive use in professional environments such as laboratories, universities, and industrial sites.

EN 16121 requires furniture to pass stringent load-bearing and tip-resistance tests, repeated use cycle testing on doors and drawers, and long-term stability assessments. The standard guarantees that shelving and structural elements maintain integrity even when fully loaded with heavy chemical containers. It also mandates safety features such as anti-tilt protection and mechanical robustness to prevent collapse or accidents during everyday use.

This certification applies broadly to Exacta’s acid/alkali cabinets, general-purpose chemical cabinets, and shelving units, underlining their mechanical strength and safe usability. Bureau Veritas certification reassures buyers that Exacta furniture is not only chemically resistant but also mechanically reliable over years of use.

Where Exacta cabinets include electrical components such as extraction fans, lighting systems, monitoring alarms, or power-driven safety features, they are certified by Bureau Veritas to comply with EN 61010-1. This European safety standard sets the rules for electrical laboratory and industrial equipment, covering hazards such as electric shock, fire risks, and mechanical instability linked to powered systems.

To achieve certification, products must demonstrate electrical insulation, grounding, fail-safe protective circuits, and resistance to overheating or ignition under fault conditions. The standard also requires rigorous testing for mechanical strength of moving parts and long-term safety under realistic laboratory operating conditions.

This applies specifically to Exacta cabinets equipped with powered ventilation, electronic monitoring, or alarm systems. Bureau Veritas certification assures laboratory managers that these electrically enhanced units are compliant with EU directives and safe for daily professional use.

Exacta ductless filtration cabinets and filtering storage units are certified by Bureau Veritas to the AFNOR NFX 15-211 standard, which is considered the benchmark European regulation for ductless chemical storage and fume containment.

The standard defines strict performance criteria for molecular filtration and operator safety. It requires that filtered air released back into the laboratory contains less than 1% of the Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of the stored substances during normal operation, and remains below 50% of the TLV during filter saturation detection tests. Cabinets must also guarantee a constant dynamic air barrier, with front airflow speeds maintained between 0.4 and 0.6 m/s to prevent escape of hazardous vapours.

This certification applies to all Exacta ductless filtration cabinets used for storing or handling chemicals that release harmful vapours. Independent Bureau Veritas testing validates both the efficiency of the activated carbon or HEPA filtration media and the long-term reliability of the containment system. For customers, it provides peace of mind that Exacta units meet the highest European safety standards for clean air and user protection.

Exacta fire-resistant cabinets are tested according to EN 1363-1, the European standard for fire resistance testing of building components. This standard underpins the testing methodology for EN 14470-1 and EN 14470-2, ensuring that cabinets undergo controlled furnace exposure with defined heating curves and performance measurements. Certification by Bureau Veritas confirms that Exacta cabinets pass these rigorous fire tests, guaranteeing reliable fire safety performance.

Exacta cabinets are also manufactured in compliance with EN 14727, which specifies construction and safety requirements for laboratory furniture. This ensures cabinets are built with materials and fittings suitable for laboratory environments, with attention to ergonomics, robustness, and chemical resistance. Certification by Bureau Veritas verifies that Exacta units meet the quality and safety benchmarks expected in professional laboratories.

Several Exacta flammable storage cabinets also carry FM Approval, an internationally recognized certification issued by FM Global. This approval demonstrates compliance with rigorous US and global fire safety standards, complementing European norms such as EN 14470-1. For laboratories and facilities operating across regions, FM Approval adds an extra layer of assurance that Exacta cabinets meet worldwide insurance and regulatory requirements.

Combi-UB Underbench Chemical Storage Cabinets

The Combi-UB series offers safe and space-saving storage of hazardous materials directly under a fume hood or bench. Available in 620 mm and 720 mm heights, these underbench cabinets come with drawers or swing doors. While doors are economical and maximize raw storage capacity, drawers are safer: users can access chemicals from above without bending, reducing accident risks.

The range includes dedicated models for flammables, acids, bases, and toxic substances, clearly labeled for safe segregation. Multiple Combi-UB units can also be combined on a single socle, creating flexible configurations.

Made from epoxy-coated steel with chemical-resistant panels, all models are EN 16121 compliant and can be fitted with optional ventilation systems (duct or filtration). The Combi-UB line delivers a durable, ergonomic, and certified solution for laboratories.

Combi-UB Fireproof Underbench Safety Cabinets – EN 14470-1 Type 90

Our fireproof chemical storage cabinets provide maximum protection for laboratories handling flammable liquids. Certified to EN 14470-1 Type 90, they ensure 90 minutes of fire resistance, combined with EN 16121 compliance for laboratory furniture.

Combi-UB Underbench Safety Cabinets for Acids, Bases & Toxic Chemicals

Our underbench safety cabinets are designed for the safe storage of corrosive and hazardous substances directly beneath a workbench or fume hood. The range includes compact, medium, and large capacities, as well as combi-units that keep acids, bases, and toxic substances separated in clearly labeled compartments. While the published models highlight acids, all versions are also available for bases and toxics.

Discover Exacta EFO & BAC Series: 90-Minute Fireproof Safety Storage Cabinets

Showcased below is our premium Exacta EFO and BAC series—expertly engineered chemical storage cabinets that deliver robust fire proof safety cabinets certified to EN 14470‑1 Type 90 and compliant with EN 16121. These safety storage cabinets are specifically designed for flammable storage applications, featuring top-tier insulation, automatic self-closing doors, intumescent seals, and fire-dampened ventilation. Whether you’re handling volatile solvents or acids, Exacta’s expansive portfolio ensures you find the right 90‑minute solution for your laboratory or industrial safety needs.

Explore Exacta COMBI‑EFO & COMBI‑STORE Series: Versatile 90-Min Fire‑Proof Safety Cabinets

Discover our Exacta COMBI‑EFO and COMBI‑STORE series—innovative chemical storage cabinets offering modular compartments for all your hazardous storage needs. Certified to EN 14470‑1 Type 90 and EN 16121, these units provide segmented, fire-resistant storage:

  • COMBI‑EFO: A compact solution with 1 or 2 doors managing multiple compartments.

  • COMBI‑STORE: Designed with one door per compartment for clear access and segregation.

 Configurations available:

  • 2 compartments: flammables + acids

  • 3 compartments: flammables + acids + bases

  • 4 compartments: flammables + acids + bases + toxics

Solidly built from electro-galvanized steel with 1–1.5 mm walls, epoxy coatings, automatic fire-sealing at 50 °C, and 70 °C air dampers—plus pre-arranged duct ports—these cabinets ensure compliant fire proof safety and flammable storage solutions. Explore the carousel to find the multi-risk storage unit that fits your lab or plant layout perfectly.

Discover Exacta WOOD & PVC Series: high corrosion‑Resistant Acid & Base Storage Cabinets

Explore our Exacta WOOD (HPL) and PVC series—expertly designed chemical storage cabinets tailored for acid storage and base storage needs of highly corrosive chemicals. Compliant with EN 16121 and EN 61010‑1, these cabinets feature high-density HPL for the WOOD series and 18 mm cellular PVC with epoxy-coated steel bases for the PVC series. Crafted to resist aggressive vapors and corrosive liquids like hydrochloric acid that will corrode coated steel units over time. They offer compartmentalized, ventilable designs that are easy to clean and maintain. Browse below to find the perfect anti‑corrosion solution for your lab or industrial environment.

Ventilation Options for Chemical Storage Cabinets

When using chemical storage cabinets—especially those classified under fire and safety standards like EN 14470-1—adequate ventilation plays a critical role in maintaining workplace safety and chemical integrity.

1. Passive Ventilation

Our Exacta storage cabinets feature built-in exchange openings that allow natural (passive) airflow, helping reduce vapor build-up at minimal cost. The main advantage is its simplicity and affordability. However, passive ventilation brings limitations:

  • Uncontrolled air exchange – it’s impossible to confirm sufficient airflow.
  • Insufficient airflow to meet EN 14470-1, which mandates exchanging the cabinet’s air volume 10 times per hour.
  • Depends on room ventilation – vapors are simply released into the surrounding space, not removed. So passive ventilation is only safe when the environment of the cabinet is sufficiently ventilated.

2. Active Ventilation – Extraction to Outside

This method involves actively drawing vapors away via: Connecting the cabinet to the building’s ventilation system, or Employing our Exacta Vent series fans and ducting. This method involves sufficient ventilation without the need for routine carbon filter replacement

3. Active Ventilation – Recirculating Filtration (NFX 15-211)

An alternative to extraction, this method uses activated carbon filters to clean cabinet vapors before recirculating air back into the environment. Compliant with NFX 15-211, it offers key benefits:

  • Easier installation (no building ductwork required)
  • Lower operational cost—no HVAC adjustments needed for makeup air

Active ventilation with the Exacta Vent Series

The Exacta Vent series offers reliable solutions for actively ventilating chemical storage cabinets through extraction to the outside. These compact ventilator boxes are designed to be easily connected to cabinet exhaust collars and ensure compliance with standards such as EN 14470-1, which requires at least 10 air exchanges per hour. Depending on your needs, models are available for flammable and non-flammable products, as well as ATEX-certified versions for hazardous environments. For limiting VOC release into the environment, optional activated carbon filters can be integrated directly in the box to capture residual vapors. In addition to the ventilator units, we supply a complete range of HVAC accessories (ducts, flexible tubing, connectors, clamps, etc.) to build a safe and efficient extraction channel tailored to your installation. This ensures you get not only the right ventilator box, but also a complete and secure solution for removing hazardous vapors from your laboratory or storage area.

Filtration with the Erlab Captair Chemtrap H Series

The Erlab Captair Chemtrap H series is designed for tall chemical storage cabinets, offering safe filtration without ducting. Installed directly on top of cabinets, they use activated carbon filters (AS, BE+, F, K) and HEPA H14 filters to capture vapors and particulates. Certified to NFX 15-211 and EN 1822, Chemtrap H units ensure compliance with the strictest standards. Their modular design lets you choose the right filter for solvents, acids, formaldehyde, ammonia, or powders. Optionally equipped with Molecode monitoring and Smart Technology LED signals, they guarantee safe operation and real-time performance control. For labs where ducting is impractical, Chemtrap H units provide a cost-effective, energy-saving solution: easy to install, no HVAC modifications, and reliable long-term protection.

Filtration with the Erlab Captair Chemtrap H Series

The Erlab Captair Chemtrap V series ensures safe filtration for underbench chemical storage cabinets. Compact and easy to install, these units connect to the cabinet’s exhaust collar and use activated carbon filters (AS, BE+, F, K) and optional HEPA H14 filters to capture vapors and powders. Certified to NFX 15-211 and EN 1822, Chemtrap V units adapt to solvents, acids, formaldehyde, ammonia, or particulates. With optional Smart Technology LED signals and Molecode monitoring, they offer real-time safety control and reliable long-term protection. Cost-effective and energy-saving, they prevent vapor buildup in small cabinets without requiring ducting or HVAC modifications.

Erlab and ductless filtering storage cabinets

Erlab is the pioneer and global market leader in ductless filtration technology, offering advanced solutions for safe chemical storage without external ducting.
Ductless storage cabinets provide a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional vented chemical storage units. Instead of exhausting contaminated air through the building’s ventilation system, these cabinets use activated carbon and/or HEPA filtration to capture hazardous vapors internally, ensuring clean air recirculation within the lab.

The main advantages of ductless storage cabinets include:

Energy savings – No loss of temperature-conditioned air, avoiding thousands of euros in annual HVAC energy costs per cabinet

Environmental protection – No toxic chemical emissions released into the atmosphere

Greater scalability – Storage capacity is no longer limited by the lab’s ventilation infrastructure

Maximum flexibility – No fixed connection needed to ventilation systems, making relocation or reconfiguration quick and easy

Stable containment performance – Consistent airflow and filtration efficiency, ideal for safe, pressure-stable chemical storage

Discover Erlab Captair Ductless Storage Cabinets

Erlab’s renowned Captair ductless storage cabinets combine advanced filtration technology with sleek, compact design—offering safe, energy-efficient storage for hazardous chemicals without the need for ductwork. Ideal for laboratories seeking flexibility, fast installation, and clean air protection, these cabinets provide a smart alternative to traditional ducted systems. Explore the full range below.

Vue latérale de la hotte de laboratoire Asem Kristal M0 avec panneaux transparents, conforme à la norme EN 14175

Need a solution to safely handle your chemicals?

Safe storage is only one part of chemical safety – proper extraction is just as essential. The Asem laboratory fume hoods provide direct ducted ventilation to the outside, ensuring maximum protection for users against hazardous vapors and aggressive chemicals. Available in widths from 1200 to 2400 mm and in Class 0 metal, Class 1 melamine, and Class 1 PVC, these fume cupboards are fully compliant with EN 14175. They are the ideal solution for pharmaceutical, research, and industrial laboratories where centralized and permanent ventilation is required.

Frequently asked questions

A chemical storage cabinet is a specialized enclosure designed to safely store hazardous chemicals in laboratories, preventing leaks, spills, and exposure. Chemical cabinets can be ventilated or non-ventilated, depending on the stored substances and safety requirements.

Proper chemical storage protects laboratory personnel from exposure to hazardous fumes, prevents chemical reactions between incompatible substances, and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations. It also extends the shelf life of chemicals and minimizes environmental risks.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), corrosive acids, flammable solvents, and toxic vapors typically require a ventilated storage cabinet. Proper ventilation helps prevent harmful vapors from accumulating inside the cabinet and the laboratory environment

Choosing between a ducted and a ductless chemical storage cabinet depends on the types and quantities of chemicals you store, the laboratory ventilation design, maintenance preferences, and installation constraints. Ducted cabinets are preferred for high volumes and aggressive vapors; ductless cabinets are suitable for flexibility and filtered recirculation. Ductless filtering storage cabinets can help your laboratory reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

A ductless chemical storage cabinet uses a filtration system, typically activated carbon or molecular filters, to capture and neutralize hazardous vapors inside the cabinet. Clean air is then recirculated back into the laboratory, eliminating the need for external ductwork and reducing air laboratory air consumption.

Filter replacement in a ductless chemical cabinet typically occurs every 12 to 24 months, depending on the chemical types, usage intensity, and manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular monitoring and periodic filter saturation tests are essential for maintaining safety.

Generally, large volumes of chemicals should not be stored inside a fume hood, as this can disrupt airflow patterns and reduce the fume hood’s effectiveness. Dedicated under-bench storage or ventilated cabinets are better solutions.

Exacta offers cabinets certified to EN 14470‑1 Type 30 and Type 90, meaning they maintain safe internal temperatures for at least 30 or 90 minutes during fire events.

Yes—Exacta’s range includes specialized models with sealed partitions or separate configurations for acid storage and flammable storage, minimizing cross-contamination and hazard risk.

Absolutely. Exacta designs feature integrated spill trays and sump pallets that capture leaks, helping you comply with spill retention regulations.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation Whether you're upgrading an existing lab hood or planning a new lab setup, talk to our experts today. Let us help you choose the safest, smartest, and most sustainable ductless fume cabinet solution for your laboratory in the Benelux.

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