Chemical Storage Units

Which chemical storage unit do I need?

The right chemical storage unit depends on what you are storing, how much you need to contain and where the unit will be used. For most sites, the key considerations are the type of substance, container size, required capacity, indoor or outdoor location and whether secondary containment is needed.

When choosing a storage solution, consider:

• the chemicals, oils or hazardous liquids being stored
• whether you are storing small containers, drums or IBCs
• the total volume and number of containers
• whether the unit will be located indoors or outdoors
• access, security and site layout requirements
• the level of secondary containment required for your application

Hazchem Safety supplies a range of storage options for different site requirements, from smaller chemical cabinets through to larger bunded storage solutions for drums and IBCs.

What types of chemical storage units are available?

Different storage types suit different substances, container sizes and working environments.

• Chemical cabinets – suitable for secure indoor storage of smaller containers and hazardous substances
• Chemical storage containers – designed for larger quantities of chemicals and industrial materials
• Bunded storage units – provide built-in secondary containment for drums, IBCs and hazardous liquids
• Spill pallets – used beneath drums or IBCs to provide localised spill containment
• Petroleum storage – designed for suitable storage of fuels and petroleum-based products
• Static storage solutions – suitable where fixed, site-specific storage is required

Selecting the right option helps ensure substances are stored appropriately while making day-to-day handling, inspection and site management more straightforward.

When is bunded storage suitable?

Bunded storage is appropriate where secondary containment is required to control leaks or spills from stored liquids. The bund is designed to retain escaped liquid within the storage area rather than allowing it to spread into the surrounding workplace, drains or environment.

Bunded solutions are commonly used for chemicals, oils, drums and IBCs in industrial and regulated environments. The correct solution will depend on the substance being stored, container type, required capacity and site-specific risk assessment.

View our bunded storage units for available options.

How do I choose the right capacity?

Start by identifying the number and size of containers that need to be stored now, together with any likely future requirements. This will help determine whether you need a smaller cabinet, a drum storage solution, an IBC-compatible unit or a larger bunded store.

For multi-site or higher-volume operations, it is also worth considering whether a standardised storage configuration can be used across locations. This can make specification, inspection, replenishment and ongoing site management easier.

Do I need help specifying chemical storage?

Where requirements are more complex, Hazchem Safety can help organisations assess storage needs and identify suitable options for the site, substances and containers involved.

For wider site protection, Hazchem Safety also supplies spill control products to support spill containment, response and clean-up requirements.

Chemical storage unit FAQs

What is a bunded chemical storage unit?

A bunded chemical storage unit has built-in secondary containment designed to retain leaks or spills from the containers stored inside it. These units are commonly used for drums, IBCs, chemicals and oils where additional containment is required.

What is the difference between a spill pallet and a bunded storage unit?

A spill pallet provides secondary containment beneath drums or IBCs, while a bunded storage unit usually provides a larger enclosed or dedicated storage area with integrated containment. The right option depends on the number of containers, the required capacity, site conditions and how the materials need to be accessed and secured.

Can chemical storage units be used outdoors?

Yes. Many chemical and bunded storage units are designed for outdoor use, but suitability depends on the individual product specification, the substances being stored and the site environment. Check the product details before selecting a unit for outdoor installation.

What size chemical storage unit do I need?

The correct size depends on the number and size of containers, the total storage volume, whether you are storing drums or IBCs, and the available site space. It is also important to consider the required containment capacity and how the unit will be accessed during normal operations.

Can Hazchem Safety help with larger or multi-site storage requirements?

Yes. Hazchem Safety supports organisations operating in regulated industrial environments where storage requirements may need to be standardised across departments, sites or facilities. Speak to the team about capacity, configuration and suitable product options for your requirements.