Buying Guide: Steel Hazardous Material Depots by MEILLER

Safe and Compliant Storage of Hazardous Substances – With MEILLER Steel Depots

When it comes to safely storing hazardous substances such as flammable liquids or environmentally harmful materials, a hazardous material depot made of steel is a reliable and legally compliant solution. MEILLER’s hazardous material depots are specifically designed for the outdoor or indoor storage of drums and IBCs in accordance with current regulations such as the German Water Resources Act (WHG) and European safety standards.

What Is a Hazardous Material Depot Used For?

Hazardous material depots (also known as hazmat storage lockers or hazardous goods cabinets) are compact, lockable steel storage units with an integrated spill containment sump. They are ideal for small quantities of hazardous materials and allow decentralized storage close to the point of use. The robust design ensures high durability and protection against unauthorized access and environmental hazards.

MEILLER hazardous material depots are:

• Optimized for 2 or 4 x 205-litre drums or 1 x 1000-litre IBC container
• Built entirely from galvanized or powder-coated steel
• Equipped with integrated steel sumps for spill containment
• Available with lockable hinged doors or top-opening lids

Key Benefits of MEILLER Steel Hazardous Material Depots

• Regulation-compliant storage according to WHG and StawaR
• Durable all-steel construction, suitable for flammable liquids
• Integrated steel sump portects soil and groundwater from leaks
• Space-efficient design, ideal for decentralized storage
• Lockable doors prevent unauthorized access
• Suitable for outdoor and indoor use

Application Areas: Who Needs a Hazardous Material Depot?

MEILLER hazardous material depots are used across various industries for compliant storage of chemicals, solvents, oils, and more:

• Chemical Industry: For secure storage of reactive or flammable substances on site.
• Laboratories: For decentralized and clear organized storage of solvents and reagents.
• Manufacturing and Processing: Ideal for storing process chemicals near workstations to reduce transport distances.
• Food & Beverage Industry: Stores claeaning and disinfection chemicals separately from food to prevent contamination.

Which Container Sizes Can Be Stored?

MEILLER offers four steel depot models, each tailored to specific container types:

• Hazmat depot for 2 x 205-litre drums – compact and efficient storage with 220 L spill capacity
• Hazmat depot for 4 x 205-litre drums – ideal for larger drum quantities
• Hazmat depot for 1 x 1000-litre drums – with raised galvanized platform and front spill grating for filling operations
• Hazmat depot for 4 x 205-litre drums – for easy access and spatial flexibility

All steel depots come with integrated steel spill trays, resistant to flammable and water-polluting substances.

Design Features & Equipment Options

MEILLER steel depots are engineered with practical details that enhance workplace safety and efficiency:

• Hinged doors for secure and easy access
• Top-opening lids for loading from above
• Hot-dip galvanized sump grates for safe container placement
• Optional galvanized platforms – raise containers for spill-safe operations

Each model is pre-assembled and ready for use, with stable feet for forklift handling and outdoor installation.

Steel vs. Plastic: Why Choose a Steel Depot?

While plastic depots (e.g. from polyethylene) are ideal for aggressive chemicals, steel depots offer superior fire resistance, impact protection, and long-term durability. This makes them ideal for:

• Flammable substances (e.g., paints, fuels, solvents)
• Outdoor use and variable temperatures
• High mechanical loads (e.g., drum movement by forklifts)

Best Practices for Operating a Hazardous Material Depot

To ensure maximum safety and compliance, follow these proven guidelines:

• Location & Separation: Place depots near the point of use and separate them according to hazard class.
• Emergency Readiness: Store spill kits and binders nearby. Ensure clear access in emergencies.
• Clear Labeling: Label all depots and contents visibly to prevent mix-ups and speed up access.
• Employee Training: Regularly train staff in safe handling procedures, emergency actions, and equipment use.

Maintenance & Legal Requirements

Hazmat depots are subject to safety regulations. MEILLER depots comply with WHG and TRGS 510 standards. Keep your depot safe and legal with the following:

• Annual inspections to check the sump, seals, and structural integrity
• Visual checks for corrosion, leaks, or container damage
• Documentation of contents, maintenance, and inspection records

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I choose the right hazardous material depot?
  • Selecting the appropriate hazardous material depot depends on several factors. First, you should determine the type and quantity of hazardous substances to be stored. Consider the chemical properties and potential risks associated with the materials. Additionally, take into account the applicable legal regulations and safety standards relevant to your industry. Another key factor is the storage capacity of the depot—ensure it meets both current and anticipated future storage needs. The location of the depot is also critical: it should be easily accessible while remaining secure against unauthorized access.
• What legal requirements must a hazmat depot fulfill?
  • A hazardous material depot must comply with a wide range of legal requirements to ensure the safety of personnel and environmental protection. In Germany, the primary regulations include the Water Resources Act (WHG), the Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health (BetrSichV), and the Technical Rules for Hazardous Substances (TRGS). These regulations specify how hazardous substances must be stored, labeled, and monitored. For example, a compliant depot must be equipped with spill containment systems that can hold either the full volume of the largest container stored or at least 10% of the total stored volume, whichever is greater, to prevent contamination in the event of a leak. Regular inspections and maintenance are also mandatory to ensure the continued safety and functionality of the depot.
• How often should maintenance and inspections be carried out?
  • The frequency of maintenance and inspection for a hazardous material depot depends on both legal requirements and manufacturer recommendations. As a general rule, comprehensive inspections should be conducted at least once per year to verify the depot’s safety and operational condition. Additionally, routine visual checks by on-site personnel are important to detect early signs of damage or wear. Maintaining detailed records of maintenance and inspection activities is essential for ensuring traceability and demonstrating compliance with regulatory standards.

Summary: Safe, Durable, and Regulation-Compliant Hazmat Depots

MEILLER steel hazardous material depots offer a compact, secure, and durable storage solution for small quantities of hazardous substances. With robust construction, integrated spill containment, and compliance with legal regulations, they provide maximum safety for people and the environment.

Secure your workplace today – with MEILLER’s steel hazmat depots.