It is recognized that some state and local jurisdictions may require storage cabinets to be vented. Safety cabinets should be vented from the lower vent opening with make-up air supplied to the upper vent opening. Mechanical exhaust ventilation is preferred and should comply with NFPA 91-199 Standard for Exhaust Systems for Air Conveying Vapors, Gasses, Mist, and Non-Combustible Solids.

In such cases, the ventilation system should be installed so as not to reduce the fire protection capabilities of the safety cabinet during a fire. Means of accomplishing this may include thermally actuated dampers on the vent openings or proper insulation of the vent piping system. Manifolding the vents of multiple storage cabinets should be avoided. Any make-up air to the cabinet should also be arranged in a similar manner. Remember, the intent of a flammables storage cabinet is to keep the contents of the cabinet away from the fire. The ductwork of the cabinet should have the same intent.