1. Look for reinforced, welded steel corners. These are the cornerstones of a sturdy file. To ensure years of trouble-free use, make sure all sides of the cabinet are welded together.


2. Make sure the cabinet has a central cam lock for document safe-keeping.
3. Leveling glides help to keep the cabinet frame square, allowing the door and lock to open easily.


4. Suspend your workload. Solid steel ball-bearing suspensions help heavy, full drawers open and close smoothly.


5. Don't lock yourself out. Use a positive action lock. For total flexibility, files should hold both letter and legal size file folders.
   

Archive Files:

Usually stored away from the main work area and are infrequently accessed.

Current Files:

These files are the most frequently used and are normally smaller in scale.
They should be stored within reach or very close to your work area.

Active Files:

There are two types of active filing:

Personal Files

These files pertain to your work process and affect the performance of your
office tasks. These files would be located within your working area for easy
retrieval.

Company Files

These files generally support a department/s and are usually found in a common
area within that department/s. Since these files are generally shared by others
make sure you place them back in their proper location when you have finished.

Within all of the above it is sometimes broken down into the following areas;
retrieval, staging, storing materials, supplies, equipment, tools and additional
information (like catalogs & reference material). Understanding and implementing
the above in your planning will assist you and your colleges productivity. In order
to save time and frustration for others and yourself, make a form that indicates who
has the file out, this will save time and stress for all.

Consider safety when setting up your filing area

• Do not place filing cabinets so that the drawers open into the main aisles
• Purchase lateral files that do not permit more than one drawer to open at a time
• Use handles to close drawers to avoid catching fingers
• Place all heavy objects in the bottom drawer
• Do not store heavy objects on top of filing cabinets
• Close filing cabinet drawers when not in use
• Do not move filing cabinets when loaded
• Use professional installers to install your product

  Follow this advice and use common sense and you should have a safer office.