BIFMA X6.4-2018 defines specific tests, laboratory equipment, conditions of test, and recommended
minimum levels to be used in the test and evaluation of the performance, durability, and structural adequacy of occasional-use seating units.
This standard is intended to provide manufacturers, specifiers, and users with a common basis for evaluating the safety, durability, and structural adequacy of occasional-use seating.
Occasional-use seating is normally used in indoor spaces such as waiting, reception, or gathering areas. Occasional-use seating includes products with single seat units, units with multiple seating positions within one unit or ganged seating units. Occasional-use seating is freestanding. Occasional-use seating products are generally not adjustable for personal use.
This standard does not address general-purpose or task-oriented office chairs, or seating used for stadiums, auditoriums, lecture rooms, airports/train stations and similar high-use public seating areas.
These types of products may be covered by other BIFMA standards. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to determine if it is suitable for the intended use as defined in the scope of this document.
This standard specifies tests and acceptance levels to help ensure reasonable safety and performance independent of construction materials, manufacturing processes, mechanical designs, or aesthetic designs. This standard does not address flammability, surface material durability, cushioning materials, product emissions, or ergonomic considerations.
The acceptance levels herein are based on the actual field and test experience of BIFMA members. Where appropriate, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2010 study, which indicates the 95th percentile male weighs 125 kg (275 pounds), was used in the development of the tests. The tests were developed with an estimated product life of five years based on continuous single-shift usage. Product life will be affected by user size/weight, product use, care and maintenance, environment, and other factors, and, as such, product compliance to this standard does not necessarily guarantee a five-year product life. Products may perform longer than 5 years with appropriate use and care. This standard may not apply to seating for persons in medically compromised conditions that are often found in certain health care environments, such as physical therapy and weight loss clinics. These environments may require specific product designs that may not be adequately covered by the requirements of this standard.
| Number of Pages : | 75 |
| Published : | 05/22/2018 |
