A storage cabinet having a latching mechanism that can be unlatched by the use of either an upper actuator (80) or a lower actuator (84) is provided. The upper actuator (80) may comprise a hand knob while the lower actuator (84) may comprise a foot pedal. Thus, if an operator has his arms full and wants to open the doors of the cabinet, he can simply do so by actuating the foot pedal. Alternately, the doors of the cabinet may be opened by actuating the hand knob. This design affords the operator much flexibility in accessing the storage cabinet. A storage cabinet with a latching mechanism that is protected from damage under abusive conditions is also provided.