The Basics of Hazmat Storage Buildings: What They Are and Why You Need One
Posted by ENPAC LLC on Aug 1st 2025
When it comes to workplace safety, few things are as important, or as strictly regulated, as the proper storage of hazardous materials. Whether you’re working in manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, or industrial operations, understanding hazardous storage buildings is essential to protecting people, property, and the environment.
What Is a Hazmat Storage Building?
A hazmat storage building is a prefabricated structure specifically designed to safely house flammable, combustible, or hazardous chemicals. These buildings are constructed with fire-rated walls and ceilings, explosion relief systems, spill containment, and proper ventilation to minimize the risk of fire, explosion, or chemical exposure.
They are often used to store:
- Solvents and fuels
- Paints and coatings
- Aerosols and pressurized containers
- Cleaning agents
- Other hazardous liquids regulated by OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards
Unlike standard storage sheds or shipping containers, hazmat storage buildings are engineered to meet national fire codes and safety regulations, making them a critical investment for any operation handling dangerous materials.
Why Are Hazmat Storage Buildings Necessary?
Storing flammable materials improperly can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Fires, environmental spills, regulatory fines, and even facility shutdowns can result from non-compliant storage practices.
A compliant hazmat storage building helps:
- Protect personnel from chemical exposure or fire hazards
- Reduce fire risk with fire-rated construction and ventilation systems
- Maintain compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106, NFPA 30, and EPA requirements
- Safeguard your investment and facility operations
In short, a hazmat storage building isn’t just a convenience—it’s often a requirement.
What to Consider When Choosing a Hazmat Storage Building?
Not all hazmat storage buildings are the same. Here are a few key considerations when choosing the correct building for your application:
- Fire Rating – Choose between 2-hour, 4-hour, or non-combustible models depending on how close the building will be placed to occupied structures or property lines.
- Size and Capacity – Match your building size to your storage needs—consider drum or IBC tote capacity, shelving options, and room for future growth.
- Occupancy – Will personnel enter and work inside the storage building? If so, you’ll likely need lighting, ventilation, temperature control, and fire suppression.
- Chemicals contained – Mechanical ventilation, HVAC systems, and explosion-proof lighting may be required depending on the materials stored.
- Compliance – Ensure the building meets NFPA, EPA, and OSHA regulations, as well as any state or local codes.
Why Choose ENPAC?
At ENPAC, our team understands that safety, compliance and usability go hand-in-hand. Whether you need a basic non-combustible building in a remote facility or a fully outfitted four-hour fire-rated unit for close-quarter storage, we’re here to help you design the right solution!
These buildings play a crucial role in maintaining safety and compliance, and they are 100% customizable to each customer’s needs and applications. Before construction of a hazmat storage building commences, it is recommended to obtain proper approvals from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the placement of any structure. Typical AHJ’s include local fire marshals, local code enforcement officials, local environmental departments, or insurance providers.
Learn next: How to Choose the Right Hazmat Storage Building: Fire Ratings, Custom Options, and Chemical Safety
Contact ENPAC at info@enpac.com for any questions or a quote today!