Retrofit Instructions - Cabinets and Drawers

Cabinets can tip over just like bookcases, and their sharp-edged drawers can slide out with dangerous consequences. Moreover, the cabinet doors and drawers may open, spilling their contents.

To secure them, do the following:

Attach cabinets to the wall and floors using L-brackets or Z-brackets. Again, be sure to use brackets which can accommodate the diameter of the fasteners. Follow the specific directions given in Figure 5 below and in the "Bookcases" section for securing the bracket to the wall and cabinet.

Secure freestanding cabinets to the floor with a metal angle so that, during an earthquake, they will not move or tip over. Use an angle that can accommodate the diameter of the fasteners. The fasteners should be long enough to accommodate the thickness of the angle and provide adequate embedment into the floor, floor joists or concrete slab.

Figure 5: Secure Cabernets and Drawers

If several cabinets stand side-by-side, you can fasten them together to form a wider footprint using #8 (or larger) machine screws.

Attach simple mechanical or self-locking latches to cabinet drawers so they cannot slide open.

Figure 6: Secure Cabinets Doors and Drawers

Secure Cabinets Doors and Drawers

Figure 7: Close-up of Door Latches

Close-up of Door Latches

To prevent cabinet doors from swinging open & spilling their contents, install mechanical or self- locking latches. A variety of types are available at your local hardware store.

Heavy objects such as televisions, computers and stereos are usually placed on top of cabinets, bookcases and tables. Fasten these items so they will not slide off during an earthquake or hurricane.

Necessary Tools and Materials

L- or Z-brackets or metal angels	______	quantity
Fasteners	______
Door or drawer latches	______
Plastic anchors for masonry walls	______
Variable speed drill and bits	______
Screwdriver	______
Stud locator	______