Do storage cabinets need to be vented?

Flammable storage cabinets are not required to be vented per OSHA, nor does OSHA expressly prohibit venting. As such, the agency refers employers to NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.” NFPA 30 (4-3.4) states that cabinets “shall not be required ... to be vented for fire protection purposes and vent openings shall be sealed.”

NFPA 30 also states “if the storage cabinet is vented for any reason, the cabinet shall be vented direct to outdoors in such a manner that will not compromise the specified performance of the cabinet and in a manner that is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.”

The “authority having jurisdiction” is typically the local Fire Marshal or other fire authorities. As such, contact local authorities to determine if state or local code addresses this issue.