Fire Files
Fire filing cabinets are similar to fire safes in that they have been designed to protect its contents usually paper documents from high temperatures and even actual fire.
They are rated by the amount of time that they can withstand high temperatures that a fire produces without the internal temperature rising above a level that will damage the contents. Levels of protection range from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
When purchasing, you need to be wary of the testing that has been carried out on the product to give it its fire rating, particularly if you have very important documents and records that are vital against catastrophic loss. We recommend products that are independently tested to NT, UL & ETL standards. If you have any concerns about the claimed fire protection always ask the manufacturer for a copy of the certificate to prove that is has been tested properly.
It is recommended that you also look to see if the product has been drop tested, this applies especially if you are situated in an office that is not on the ground floor. Also of importance, we suggest looking for a cabinet that has also been tested for sudden exposure to intense heat.
There are two types of fire filing cabinets that can be bought - vertical fire files and lateral fire files. Vertical fire files are the most popular but do not always suit the customers needs and requirements. Lateral fire files are best for storing files of different sizes in the same draw by using adjustable bars, these are included on Sentry Safe models.
Fireproof filing cabinets are offered with a key locking mechanism as standard with the choice to upgrade this with certain manufacturers. Data inserts can also be purchased for particular models which ensures important computer data such as back ups can be also protected against fire.
New to the market from Sentry Safe, their water resistant range offers ETL verified protection against sprinkler and water spray exposure. Obviously this is something to strongly consider when purchasing a fire filing cabinet as you do not want your important documents to survive fire only to find out they are water damaged.
Suitable for small offices and homes alike, fire filing chests are a much smaller and compact option yet still offer superb protection against fire damage.
Fire Filing Cabinet Check List
How long do you wish the contents to be protected for? 30 minutes to 2 hours protection are available.
Are you situated on the first floor or above? Look for a cabinet that has been drop tested.
Would loss of the files be catastrophic to you or your business? Look for an independently tested cabinet.
Do you have files of different sizes? Choose a lateral fire filing cabinet.
Do you have a small office but need a fire file? Choose a compact fire file chest.
No comments:
Post a Comment