Are Metal Filing Cabinets Fireproof?
Metal filing cabinets are a staple in many offices and organizations, providing secure and organized document storage. However, an important consideration for any workspace is fire safety. So, are metal filing cabinets fireproof?
An Overview of Metal Filing Cabinets
Metal filing cabinets are constructed from sheet steel and are available in 2, 3, 4, and 5-drawer models. The most common sizes used in offices are 15″ deep x 52″ high for letter or legal file storage.
Metal cabinets provide more security and protection than plastic filing cabinets. They are heavier and more rigid, making them harder to tip over or remove from an office. The steel construction also makes them fire resistant.
Are Metal Cabinets Completely Fireproof?
Metal filing cabinets are designed to be fire resistant, but not completely fireproof. The steel construction makes them more resistant to fire and high temperatures than wood or plastic cabinets. However, given sufficient heat and time, metal filing cabinets can eventually weaken and fail.
According to tests by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), metal filing cabinets can withstand:
- Temperatures up to 1700°F for short periods
- 250°F for one hour without igniting paper documents inside
So while metal cabinets provide good fire resistance, they cannot guarantee complete fire protection for their contents. Extreme building fires can eventually damage metal filing cabinets and destroy unprotected paper records.
Features That Improve Fire Resistance
While standard metal filing cabinets offer decent fire resistance, there are features that can further improve protection:
Fire-Rated Cabinets
Fire-rated (also called fire-resistant) filing cabinets are constructed with layers of gypsum and steel to provide 1-2 hour fire resistance. These cabinets are rated to withstand at least 1700°F while maintaining interior temperatures below 350°F. This added protection gives more time to rescue contents in extreme fires.
Insulated Drawers
Some metal filing cabinets include drawer cores insulated with vermiculite or glass fiber. This added insulation provides an extra barrier against heat transfer into the cabinet interior.
Fireproof File Folders
Storing paper records in fireproof folders or envelopes inside metal cabinets adds another layer of protection. This protects contents even if fire penetrates the cabinet.
Water-Resistant Coating
A polyester or epoxy coating helps seal the cabinet to reduce smoke and water damage. This helps preserve contents even if the cabinet is exposed to sprinklers or fire hoses.
Best Practices for Fire Safety
While quality metal cabinets provide decent fire resistance, the best protection for critical documents includes:
- Use fire-rated cabinets with insulated drawers for vulnerable documents
- Store paper records in fire-rated folders/envelopes
- Digitalize irreplaceable records and store backups offsite
- Position cabinets away from potential ignition sources
- Follow local fire codes and records retention requirements
Metal filing cabinets are a good first line of defense, but a comprehensive fire plan is needed to fully protect important records. Consulting with facilities managers and records management specialists is advised to develop prudent fire safety measures.
Are Metal Filing Cabinets a Good Choice?
Metal filing cabinets offer notable benefits that make them a smart storage solution:
- More secure than plastic cabinets
- Provide decent fire resistance
- Relatively low cost and widely available
- Locking drawers keep contents private
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Stackable models save space
So metal filing cabinets can serve most needs for affordable, fire-safe office storage. Taking additional measures like fire-rated cabinets and digitizing records can provide prudent protection for critical documents. With sensible precautions, metal filing cabinets remain a workhorse of safe and organized record keeping.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Filing Cabinet Fire Safety
Are all metal filing cabinets fireproof?
No. Standard metal filing cabinets are fire-resistant, but not fully fireproof. True fireproof cabinets require special construction with insulated layers.
How long can a standard metal cabinet withstand fire?
About 1 hour before failure based on UL testing. Fire-rated models can last 1-2 hours or more before heat damage occurs.
Should I store important documents in a metal filing cabinet?
Metal cabinets provide good basic fire protection for general office files and records. For critical irreplaceable documents, a fire-rated cabinet or offsite digital storage is recommended.
What temperature can a metal filing cabinet withstand?
Standard metal cabinets can withstand about 1700°F for short periods of time before weakening. Fire-rated models can handle over 1700°F for 1-2 hours.
Can paper burn inside a metal filing cabinet in a fire?
Yes, once internal temperatures reach about 250°F, unprotected paper can ignite and burn. Fireproof folders provide added insulation and protection.
Are lateral file cabinets (wide and shallow) as fire resistant as vertical file cabinets?
Lateral file cabinets generally offer comparable fire resistance to vertical cabinets of the same metal construction. Their shape does not affect fire protection capacity.
Should I bolt my filing cabinets to the wall for fire safety?
Bolting cabinets to wall studs or the floor is recommended to prevent tipping and provide added stability during a fire. This helps prevent cabinet damage or collapse.
Where is the best place to position filing cabinets to reduce fire risk?
Locate filing cabinets away from potential ignition hazards in the office such as machinery, appliances and electronics. Position near an exit and away from high traffic areas if possible.
Should I store paper records digitally instead of in filing cabinets?
Digitizing records enhances preservation and enables remote offsite backups. However, metal filing cabinets remain a secure onsite option. Utilize both methods for optimal fire protection and access.
Conclusion
Metal filing cabinets offer reliable, affordable, fire-safe document storage for most office settings. While not fully fireproof, their durable steel construction withstands high heat for reasonable periods of time. Upgrading to fire-rated cabinets, adding internal insulation, and storing contents in fireproof folders can significantly improve protection. Following sensible precautions and fire codes will provide prudent safeguards for important records. Metal filing cabinets, used properly, remain a core component of a prudent office fire safety strategy.
