In almost all schools it is likely that exam papers will be stored on the premises at some point and this can present some risk. Just like any other documents, exam papers could be easily stolen by students wishing to get ahead or even destroyed in the case of a fire.
In addition to needing to be kept safe from theft or fire, when storing exam papers schools are required to comply with specific regulations set by the
Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). Failure to comply with these regulations could negatively impact students in that one school or even further afield.
We have selected 5 of our favourite cabinets for exam paper storage and have made sure that they comply with the JCQ regulations, provided they are properly fixed.
1. Best cabinet for fire resistance
Burton Firesec – from £2172.00
The Burton Firesec storage cabinet is police approved with a high-security key lock, offering an insurance cover of £4000 cash or £40,000 in valuables. This cabinet is a great option for those concerned about fire damage as it offers 60 minutes fire resistance for paper documents.
Key Features: 
- Police Approved via the Secured by Design Security Approval System
- AIS Approved - Association of Insurance Surveyors
- Fire protection for paper documents for up to 60 minutes
- High-security key operated lock with 2 keys
- Storage pouch and key hooks on the back of the door
- 4 Removable and adjustable height shelves
2. Best medium cabinet
Chubbsafes Archive 325 – from £808.00
This cabinet is a great choice for those looking for a lower budget and slightly smaller option for storing exam papers where space is limited. It is fire resistant and fits the guidelines set out by the JCQ for exam paper storage.
Key Features:
- Double walled with fire resistant insulation
- A capacity of 325 litres
- Single heavy-duty door with 3 way bolt work for security
- 3 adjustable shelves
- High-security EN1300 Class A tested key lock fitted with 2 keys
- Optional high-security electronic Lock
3. Best large cabinet
Chubbsafes Archive 640 - from £1194.00
This cabinet is designed for storage of large quantities of important paper documents, roll out suspension files and examination papers. It has key locking as standard but does include an option of a digital electronic lock for added security.
Key Features: 
- Double walled with fire resistant insulation
- A capacity of 640 litres
- Twin heavy duty doors with 3-way bolt work for security
- 4 adjustable shelves
- Optional roll-out suspension file cradle
- Optional internal cupboard
- High-security EN1300 Class A tested key lock fitted with 2 keys
- Optional upgrade to a reprogrammable digital electronic lock
4. Best extra-large cabinet
Phoenix Firechief FS1654E – from £1782.00
The Phoenix Firechief is the perfect cabinet for those looking for a lot of storage space for important documents or exam papers. It is designed to protect against burglary and fire damage, with 30 minutes fire protection for paper documents.
Key Features: 
- Recommended insurance cover of £2000 cash
- Fitted with a Class 2 VdS high-security digital lock
- Lock can be programmed for dual control and time delay
- High-security heavy duty double door with 3-way bolt work for security
- 4 height adjustable shelves
5. Best mid-range cabinet
Phoenix Fire Ranger FS1513K– from £1047.00
This cabinet offers a lot for its price. It is an impressive size, with 30 minutes fire protection and a high-security VDS class 1 key operated lock. The Phoenix Fire Ranger FS1513K has 30 minutes fire protection and is fitted with a high-security VDS Class 1 Key Operated Lock with 2 keys supplied.
Key Features:
- Recommended insurance cover of £1500
- High-security key lock with 2 keys supplied as standard
- High-security heavy duty double doors with 3-way bolt work for security
- 4 height adjustable shelves with integral lateral suspension file rails
To find the right storage cabinet for your needs, contact our friendly team on 0800 567 7549.
