Search Results for “standards” in all sections.
News
CEN TC 207 Furniture Standards meeting report
Scope of committee to include 'circular economy'; changes to bunk bed standard EN 747
Consumer attitudes to fire safety information on furniture
Results from The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) research
FIRA International launch new portal to simplify testing
Designed to give customers more control over their testing
OPSS: 'a new approach to the FFFSR'
Key change is the entire time scale has been extended by about a year
Domestic flammability regulations are the focus of a new training session
Includes requirements, responsibilities, testing and labelling
British furniture industry launches campaign to save jobs
‘Buy the Best, Buy British, Save Jobs’ campaign aims to make people aware of the jobs at stake in the wake of COVID 19
Latest quarterly standards update published
Members can now access all the updates
Work on ISO standards
Updates on 10 ISO standards
Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 as amended
Due to Covid-19 OPSS have been revising their timetable and does not expect to have new regulations ready until 2022
Update on EN 1335-1: 2020 Office work chair – Dimensions -determination of dimensions
Published by CEN 207 in April, adopted by BSI in May, the older version of EN 1335-1; 2000 was withdrawn
New recorded training on key topics
First session, ‘Introduction to REACH Regulations’, is now available
Implications of providing office/contract chairs for employees who are working at home
Clarification from OPSS: do office chairs in the home need to comply with the FFFSR if they've been tested to BS 7176: 2008 + A1; 2011.
Latest Standards Update released
Confirms the publication of three new standards
ISO TC 136 furniture standards meeting reports
Covers storage, children’s furniture, seating, tables and mattresses
BS EN 1335-1: 2020 Office furniture
Implementation of new standard delayed
New Standard for educational furniture published
BS EN 13150: 2020 immediately replaces the 2001 version
Standards meeting report - hardware for furniture
Despite lockdowns the development of European Standards continues
New Standard for office furniture published
BS EN 1335-1: 2020 Office Furniture. Office work chair. Part 1 Dimensions – Determination of dimensions
Latest Standards Update
Includes two new standards
France issues update to childcare standards
References NF EN 1130: 2019 Childcare furniture: Cradles - Safety requirements and test methods
BSI releases suite of best practice standards
Risk and business continuity standards publicly available
Children's Highchair standard amended
BS EN 14988: 2017 +A1: 2020 - Children's Highchairs
New experts join FIRA International
FIRA International, our service provider, has welcomed two new colleagues to its consultancy team
California AB2998 and ASTM E05 Fire Committee
California regulation prohibiting flame retardant chemicals in upholstered furniture
Positive vote for a new standard for electrical furniture
IEC 60335 Part 2 -116 Household and similar electrical appliances - Safety - Part 2-116
First office furniture Remanufacturing Standard
Covers office and contract chairs / seating, office and contract tables / desking, office and contract storage units
New standard for bariatric beds
Specifies safety, strength and durability performance requirements
Standards Meeting Report – CEN TC207 Plenary
Standards expected to be published in the coming years
Standards Report – Common test methods
Topics include motorised furniture, mattresses, seating and more
Standards meeting report – Suspended seating workshop
Possible test methods for suspended seating
Standards meeting report – seat loading template
Discussion on the seat loading point when testing stability
Standards meeting report – foldaway beds
Potential revision of EN 1129 Parts 1 & 2 Furniture - Foldaway beds - Safety requirements and testing
Standards meeting report – Non-domestic furniture
Committee merger and revision to EN 15372
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 28th March
An update on all the latest Brexit discussions
‘The General Product Safety Directive, a guide to legislation and its application in the furniture industry’
Adherence to the Directive is key in order to avoid consequences.
Assured Advice on 'fringe' or 'trim' materials
Herts Trading Standards offer clarity.
Assured Advice on labelling
Herts Trading Standards offer advice on labelling.
Further UKAS accreditation for FIRA International
Accreditation cover BS EN 1022:2018 and BS EN 1335-2:2018
Whitemeadow achieve ‘Certified Company’ status under compliance scheme
Compliance Scheme includes upholstery manufacturers, retailers and suppliers.
‘Electrical accessories incorporated into furniture - a guide to the UK regulations’
Third guide concerning electrical components in furniture
ACL 2002 LTD gain ‘Certified Company’ status under fire compliance scheme
Part of the process to become a ‘Certified Company’ was an in-depth audit
‘Electrically powered office furniture - a guide to the UK Regulations’
Details powered office furniture falling within certain Directives.
PAS 7100: 2018 Code of practice on consumer product safety recalls
Now available to SME’s free of charge
Buoyant Upholstery gain ‘Certified Company’ status under fire compliance scheme
“Compliance and Safety is always at the forefront at everything we do"
Furniture Industry Research Association summarise third quarter activity
The Furniture Industry Research Association have shared highlights from the third quarter of 2018.
Furniture Industry Research Association release their latest Standards Update
The September update confirms the publication of a number of new standards across the furniture sector.
Trading under the mutual recognition principle if there’s no Brexit deal
How importing and exporting non-harmonised goods would be affected if the UK leaves the EU with no deal.
BFC's new video demonstrates ongoing need for effective fire safety regulations
The video graphically demonstrates how consumers may be at risk from the sale of chairs, passed as safe
New Assured Advice from Hertfordshire Trading Standards
Latest Assured Advice on whether arm caps are within regulations.
Fellowes Professional Series Laptop Workstation receives FIRA Ergonomics Excellence Award
A standout feature was its varied height adjustment functionality.
Assured Advice from Hertfordshire Trading Standards
Latest Assured Advice on the validity of overseas test reports.
New compliance guide published
The US Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association , BIFMA, has published a new compliance guide giving guidance to manufacturers as to how to claim compliance to BIFMA standards.
DFS gain further ‘Certified Company’ status under upholstery compliance scheme
Furniture manufacturers, DFS Furniture Company Ltd, has achieved ‘Certified Company’ status under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s recently launched ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’. This follows on from DFS’s retail arm being confirmed as a Certified Company back in February 2018.
G Plan Flair power recliner sofas and armchairs receive Ergonomics Excellence Award
The new range of Flair power recliner sofas and armchairs from G Plan has received an Ergonomics Excellence Award from FIRA International.
New guidance published for finger entrapment.
A new European technical report has been published which looks to offer guidance on finger entrapment criteria.
PD CEN/TR 17202_2018 Furniture. General safety guidelines. Entrapment of fingers was produced by CEN TC207 WG9, the European Standards committee developing common test method standards for furniture. The working group is chaired by FIRA’s General Manager Phil Reynolds.
Furniture Industry Research Association holds Compliance and Flammability event in Long Eaton
On 18 April, the Furniture Industry Research Association welcomed over 60 delegates to their Upholstery Compliance and Flammability session held in Long Eaton. The main focus of the day was the Research Association’s ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’.
Baby Boxes - proposal for new British Standard now online
The British Standards Institution (BSI) has launched a public consultation into a proposed new British Standard for baby boxes and both Association members and non-members are invited to comment on the proposed scope and purpose of the new standard. This is a key step in the document development process and is the first opportunity for manufacturers, importers, retailers or developers to have an input.
FIRA International unveil latest Ergonomics Excellence Award recipient
The ‘Ollin’ monitor arm range by Colebrook Bosson Saunders is the latest product to receive the FIRA Ergonomics Excellence Award.
Furniture Industry Research Association updates industry on work
The Furniture Industry Research Association have shared highlights from their work to-date for the first quarter of 2018. As expected there was a strong focus on standards which impact the industry. Other notable work also included the launch of their new ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’ which counts ScS and DFS as Certified Companies.
Standards Meeting Report – Domestic furniture
A meeting of CEN TC207 WG1, the European committee tasked with producing standards for domestic furniture was recently held in Nuremberg.
Latest update on standards
This latest quarterly 'Standards Update' reflects changes notified to the Furniture Industry Research Association since its previous quarterly report (published in October 2017).
Make the most of your FIRA membership
Already 2018 has been busy for the Furniture Industry Research Association, and we wanted to make sure you hadn't missed out on key resources available to you as a member.
What are your current furniture testing needs?
Our wide expertise enables us to test all types of domestic and contract furniture, from sofas to airline seats, from mattresses to outdoor furniture, from pushchairs to prison furniture. Whether it be for structural, durability, safety or flammability, it is all carried out within our UKAS accredited facilities.
Are you making the most of the resources available to you as a Member of the Furniture Industry Research Association?
The Furniture Industry Research Association website is host to a wealth of information which Members can access free of charge. Member companies can have as many website users as they need, so please check if your company is a member - you may be eligible for a login to this great resource.
Furniture Industry Research Association Annual Review
We've released our latest ‘Annual Review’, which is a consolidation of much of the work undertaken by the Research Association during 2017, along with an insight into plans for 2018.
New European Standard for Kitchen Furniture published
BS EN 1116: 2018 Furniture. Kitchen furniture. Coordinating sizes for kitchen furniture and kitchen appliance has now been published and replaces the 2004 version with immediate effect.
New 'Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture'
The new Compliance Scheme has been in operation for a month, and the first two companies to gain Certified Company status are confirmed as retailers ScS and DFS. We're also hosting an event with Hertfordshire Trading Standards on 8 February so those from across the furniture supply chain can learn more about the new scheme.
DFS gain ‘Certified Company’ status under new fire compliance scheme
Furniture retailer DFS has gained ‘Certified Company’ status under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s (FIRA) new ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’.
Latest update on standards
This latest quarterly 'Standards Update' reflects changes notified to the Furniture Industry Research Association since its previous quarterly report (published in October 2017).
ScS first UK retailer to achieve Certified Company status under new FIRA Compliance Scheme
ScS, one of the UK’s leading furniture and flooring specialists, has become the first national furniture retailer to achieve Certified Company status under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s (FIRA) new Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture.
Standards meeting Update
A meeting was recently held in London of BSI Technical Committee FW/002 regarding British Standard BS 8474: 2013 and electrically actuated furniture such as rise/recline seating.
Furniture Industry Research Association launch new fire compliance scheme
The Furniture Industry Research Association has entered into a Primary Authority Co-ordinated Partnership with Hertfordshire Trading Standards, so participants of the scheme will be part of a regulated group and benefit from Assured Advice.
New ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’
This month the Furniture Industry Research Association launches the new ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’. On 8 February two sessions are taking place, with Hertfordshire Trading Standards, to help manufacturers and retailers learn more about the scheme.
Standards Database
Don’t forget members of the Furniture Industry Research have exclusive access to FIRA’s ‘Standards Database’ containing details on all standards relating to the furniture industry
Standards Meeting Report - Domestic Furniture
A meeting was recently held in Nuremberg of CEN TC207 WG1 – the European Standards committee responsible for developing standards for domestic furniture.
SBFI’s ‘ARC Monitor Arm’ recognised for Ergonomics Excellence
FIRA’s Ergonomics Excellence accolade is the third award for the ARC range, following on from a Silver Award from NeoCon and a 2017 iF Design Award.
UK British Standards meeting report – Safety of child use and child care products
A meeting of CW/001, the UK mirror committee responsible for safety of childcare products recently met in London. The committee itself covers a wide range of childcare products from pushchairs and baby walkers to highchairs and booster sears.
‘Electrically actuated furniture for the domestic market - a guide to the UK Regulations’ published
The guide aims to help those from across the furniture supply chain to understand how the European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC impacts domestic furniture, especially after updates to the directive which came into effect in July 2017.
Imperial Office receive FIRA Gold Installation
To achieve FIRA Gold Installation for Office Furniture, Imperial Office were subject to an in-depth audit to ensure they could demonstrate their installers are suitably qualified, and that all necessary procedures, documentation and quality standards are in place. Furthermore the audit included a review of Imperial Office’s customer service.
European Standards meeting report – Common test methods for furniture
A meeting of CEN TC207 WG9, the working group tasked with producing test method standards for furniture recently met in Paris. The main topic of the meeting, chaired by FIRA International’s General Manager, Phil Reynolds, was to discuss comments on the revision of the European Stability standard EN 1022 Furniture. Seating. Determination of stability.
European Standards meeting report – Advisory Group.
A meeting of the CEN TC207 advisory group recently met in Paris, to discuss issues that affect all groups developing European furniture standards.
Additional flammability course added due to capacity
As our flammability course due to take place on 15 November is at capacity, we will be running an additional course on Thursday 16 November. The popular course is designed to help manufacturers and suppliers understand their obligations to flammability regulations and standards.
Latest update on standards
The 9 page document covers new and revised standards being published, alongside details of the new guide to the EU machinery directive issued in July 2017 - which has a major impact on all motorised domestic furniture.
FIRA’s UKAS testing accreditation expanded
FIRA International have seen their United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) testing accreditation expanded following a scheduled four year re-assessment.
The Furniture Industry Research Association publishes a standard for bariatric seating
The development of the standard has taken a number of years and involved engagement with a number of stakeholders including the health service, patients, retailers, manufacturers and suppliers to the healthcare market.
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CMD recognised for their ergonomics excellence
FIRA International have recognised CMD with an Ergonomics Excellence Award for their ‘Reach Spring Assisted Monitor Arm’. The Ergonomics Excellence Award identifies genuine ergonomic excellence across workplace and domestic furniture products.
New Childcare standard published - Highchairs
A new European Standard for children’s highchairs has been published. BS EN 14988: 2017 Children’s Highchairs. Requirements and test methods replaces the previous standards, BS EN 14988-1; 2006 + A1: 2012 and BS EN 14988-2; 2006 + A1: 2012, with immediate effect.
New Guide for glass in furniture published
FIRA-FRQG G001: 2017 - The Furniture Retail Quality Group. Best Practice Guide. Glass in Furniture – Requirements, is an update on the original 2012 version of the guide.
European Standards meeting report
A meeting of the European standards committee CEN TC207 WG – Common test methods for furniture, was recently held in Nuremberg.
Standards meeting update
A meeting of the combine UK standards committees for furniture was recently held at BSI in London.
New Child care standard published
FIRA can announce that a new standard for child care articles has been published:
BS EN 1272:2017 Child care items – Table mounted chairs – Safety Requirements and Test methods
Standards meeting report – BSI Furniture committee meeting
A meeting of FW/0, the overarching BSI technical committee for furniture standards was recently held at FIRA’s Stevenage offices
Latest Standards updates published
The update includes details of a new standard; ‘BS EN 581. Part 1. 2017. Outdoor furniture. Seating and tables for camping, domestic and contract use. General safety requirements’ which was published in March 2017.
British Standards Institute launch ISO 20400 sustainable procurement guidance
Over 150 delegates joined the British Standards Institute in the launch of ISO 20400 which provides guidance for organisations seeking to implement and improve their sustainable procurement practices.
European Standards meeting held in Berlin
A meeting of CEN TC 207, the European technical committee responsible for developing standards for furniture, was recently held in Berlin.
New Office Furniture Standard Published
FIRA can announce that a new International Standard for assessing office seating has been published: BS ISO 24496:2017 Office furniture — Office chairs — Methods for the determination of dimensions
Latest standards resource from FIRA
The latest quarterly 'Standards Update' from the Furniture Industry Research Association is now available to members.
New Standard for outdoor furniture published
FIRA can announce that a new standard for outdoor furniture has been published: BS EN 581-3: 2017 Outdoor furniture. Seating and tables for camping, domestic and contract use. Mechanical safety requirements for tables
New Standards for children’s furniture published
Four revised standards for children’s furniture have been published. The standards have been produced by the Furniture Industry Research Association in conjunction with the Furniture Retail Quality Group (FRQG).
FIRA Quarterly Standards Update Report - January 2017
There have been a number of European and International Standards meetings since the previous quarterly report, with a number of meetings taking place at national and international level...
Standards
Child care articles. Baby walking frames. Safety requirements and test methods - Childrens
BS EN 1273:2020 Child care articles. Baby walking frames. Safety requirements and test methods
BS EN 1335-1:2020 - Seating
Office furniture. Office work chair. Dimensions. Determination of dimensions
PD CEN/TR 16411: 2019 - Children's
Child care articles - Compiled interpretations of CEN/TC 252 standards
BS EN 1022: 2018 - Seating
Furniture - Seating - Determination of stability
PD CEN/TR 17292: 2018 - Materials
Technical report regarding precision data for standards EN 12720, EN 12721, EN 12722, EN 15185 and EN 15186
BS EN 1335‑2:2018 - Seating
Office furniture - Office work chair - Part 2: Safety requirements
PD CEN/TR 13387‑3: 2018 - All
Child care articles – General safety guidelines. Part 3: Mechanical hazards
PD CEN/TR 13387‑2: 2018 - All
Child care articles – General safety guidelines. Part 2: Chemical hazards
PD CEN/TR 13387-4 : 2015 - All
Child use and care articles. General safety guidelines. Thermal hazards
PD CEN/TR 13387-3 : 2015 - All
Child use and care articles. General safety guidelines. Mechanical hazards
PD CEN/TR 13387-2:2015 - All
Child use and care articles - General safety guidelines - Part 2: Chemical hazards
PD CEN/TR 13387-1:2018 - All
Child care articles - General safety guidelines Part 1: Safety philosophy and safety assessment
PD CEN/TR 13387-5: 2018 - All
Child care articles - General safety guidelines - Part 5: Product information
PD CEN/TR 17202:2018 - All
Furniture. General safety guidelines. Entrapment of fingers
BS EN 12527:1999. - Hardware
Castors and wheels. Test methods and apparatus
FIRA/FRQG C004: 2016 - Cabinet
Furniture - Children’s domestic furniture – Storage furniture – Requirements for strength, stability and durability
FIRA/FRQG C003: 2016 - Tables and desks
Furniture - Children’s domestic furniture – Tables & desks – Requirements for strength, stability and durability
FIRA/FRQG C002:2016 - Seating
Furniture - Children’s domestic furniture – Seating – Requirements for strength, stability and durability
FIRA/FRQG C001: 2016 - All
FIRA/FRQG C001: 2016 - Furniture - Children’s Domestic Furniture - General safety requirements
BS EN 312-3:1997 - Materials
Particleboards. Specifications. Requirements for boards for interior fitments ( inc furniture) for use in dry conditions
BS 5910-1:1980 - Materials
Methods of test for surface finished for furniture. Assesment of surface resistance to cold liquids
BS 5268-2:2002 - Materials
Structural use of timber. Code of practice for permissible stress design, materials and workmanship
BS 3962-3:1983 - Materials
Methods of test for finishes for wooden furniture. Assessment of surface resistance to dry heat
BS EN 15372:2016 - Tables
Strength, durability and safety Requirements for non-domestic tables
BS 7337:1990 - Textiles
Specifications for tickings
BS 5873-1:1980 - Seating
Educational furniture. Specifications of functional dimensions, identification and finish of chairs and tables for educational institutions
BS 3962-2:1983 - Materials
Methods of test for finishes for wooden furniture. Assessment of surface resistance to wet heat
BS 4875-2:1985 - Seating
Strength and stability of furniture. Methods for determination of stability of chairs and stools
DD CEN/TS 16209:2011 - Materials
Furniture. Classification for properties for furniture surfaces
PD CEN/TR 16015:2010 - Hardware
Hardware for furniture. Terms for locking mechanisms
BS 4875-4:1985 - Seating
Strength and stability of furniture. Methods for determination of stability of settees
BS 3202-4:1991 - Laboratory
Laboratory furniture and fittings. Recommendations for installation
BS 5459-1:1977 - Tables
Specification for performance requirements and tests for office furniture. Desks and tables
BS 4875-3:1985 - Seating
Strength and stability of furniture. Methods for determination of strength of settees
BS EN 16139:2013 - Seating
Furniture. Strength, durability and safety. Requirements for non-domestic seating
BS 7945:1999 - Seating
Non domestic furniture. Seating. Determination of stability
FIRA C00 2:2008 - Seating
Childrens domestic furniture - Seating - Requirements for strength, stability and durability
BS ISO 21015:2007 - Seating
Office furniture. Office work chair. Test methods for the determination of stability, strength and durability
BS 7376:2009 - Tables
Inclusion of glass in the construction of tables and trolleys for domestic use. Specification
BS EN 1335-1:2000 - Seating
Office furniture. Office work chair. Dimensions. Determination of dimensions
BS 5940-1:1980 - Seating
Office furniture. Specification for design and dimensions of office workstations, desks, tables and chairs
ANSI/BIFMA 5-4:2005 - Seating
Lounge Seating - Tests
BS EN 13150:2020 - Laboratory
Workbenches for laboratories. Dimensions, safety requirements and test methods.
BS 5459-3:1983 - Cabinets
Specification for performance requirements and tests for office furniture. Storage furniture
ANSI BIFMA 5-1:2011 - Seating
General-Purpose Office Chairs - Tests
BS 3202-2:1991 - Laboratory
Laboratory furniture and fittings. Specification for performance
BS 3962-4:1980 - Materials
Methods of test for finishes for wooden furniture. Assessment of surface resistance to cold liquids
BS EN 1727:1998 - Cabinets
Domestic furniture. Storage furniture. Safety requirements and test methods.
FIRA C00 3:2008 - Tables
Childrens domestic furniture - Tables - Requirements for strength, stability and durability
BS 2576:1986 - Textiles
Method for determination of breaking strength and elongation (strip method) of woven fabrics
BS 5873-2:1991 - Seating
Educational furniture. Specification for strength and stability of chairs for educational institutions
BS 3202-3:1991 - Laboratory
Laboratory furniture and fittings. Recommendations for design
BS 5459-2:1990 - Seating
Specification for performance requirements and tests for office furniture. Office seating
BS 4951:1973 - Hardware
Specification for builders hardware : lock and latch furniture (doors)
BS EN 1729-2:2012+A1:2015 - Seating and tables
Furniture. Chairs and tables for educational institutions. Safety requirements and test methods
BS EN 1153:1996 - Cabinets
Kitchen furniture. Safety requirements and test methods for built in and free standing kitchen cabinets and worktops
BS 4875-5:2009 - Tables
Strength and stability of furniture. Requirements for strength, durability and stability of tables and trolleys for domestic use
BS 7449:1991 - Materials
Specification for inclusion of glass in the construction of furniture, other than tables or trolleys, including cabinets, shelving systems and wall hung or free standing mirrors
BS ISO 21016:2007 - Tables
Office furniture. Work tables and desks. Methods of test for the determination of the stability, strength and durability
BS 5873-3:1985 - Tables
Educational furniture. Specification for strength and stability of tables for educational institutions
BS EN 527-1:2011 - Tables
Office furniture. Work tables and desks. Dimensions
FIRA C00 1:2008 - All
Childrens Domestic Furniture - General Safety Requirements
FIRA C00 4:2008 - Cabinets
Childrens domestic furniture - Storage furniture - requirements for srength, stability and durability
BS EN 12182:2012 - Disability assistance
Assistive products for persons with disability. General requirements and test methods.
BS 3320:1988 - Textiles
Method for determination of slippage resistance of yarns in woven fabrics: seam method
Member News Feed
Flexiform Launch FIRA tested Seating Range - Flexiform Business Furniture Ltd
Office furniture manufacturer, Flexiform, releases our new office seating ranges. The ranges including a Miss meeting chair, Valido lounge chair, Melita and One-Shot stacking plastic chairs, college seminar chairs, Olé meeting chair plus Equity task chair and complementing visitors chair. Made in our Yorkshire factory, all our chairs have been FIRA approved.
Flexiform's Parq Bench and Tables pass FIRA testing - Flexiform Business Furniture Ltd
Flexiform's Parq bench tables have passed BS EN 15372: 2016 in the 30th May 2018. The Parq bench is ideal for canteens, breakout and collaboration areas in the office.
Bazaar Group joins FIRA ahead of retail brand launch - BGRP Ltd t/a Bazaar Group
Leading British soft furniture and brand manufacturer, Bazaar Group has joined the Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) ahead of launching its new retail brand.
Knowledge Hub
Recorded training sessions
Helping members navigate regulations, directives and standards
Standards Update Report - March 2020
Details of new furniture related standards and standards in development
Standards Update Report - December 2019
Details of new furniture related standards and standards in development
A guide for manufacturers seeking to claim compliance with BS 7176
Specification for resistance to ignition of upholstered furniture for non-domestic seating
FIRA Standard - Remanufacturing
FIRA Standard which specifies the requirements for the remanufacture of office and contract furniture including seating, tables, desks and storage units
FIRA Standard - Performance and Dimensional Requirements for Bariatric Beds
This FIRA Standard specifies safety, strength and durability performance requirements for all types of bariatric beds
FIRA Standard - Performance and Dimensional Requirements for Bariatric Seating
performance requirements for the structural safety and stability of bariatric seating for office, hospital, contract and domestic use
Furniture Design Toolkit - Office and Contract Furniture
Guide to assist designers and manufacturers of office and contract furniture
Furniture Design Toolkit for Domestic Furniture
Guide to assist designers and manufacturers of bedroom, living room, dining room and home office furniture
Standards Update Report - September 2019
Details of new furniture related standards and standards in development
The General Product Safety Directive, furniture industry guide to legislation
General product safety directive legislation guide
Furniture Retail Quality Group Best Practice Guide 2017 - Glass in Furniture
This guide specifies requirements that go beyond current European Standard, as well as requirements around warnings and information relating to glass failures in the field
Pages
Design and development consultancy
Working with designers in creating products to ensure ergonomics are not only state of the art but consider standards
British, European and ISO standards committee work
Steering the development of standards to deal with the current and future products and trends
Ergonomic Excellence
Showcases products which excel in ergonomic features and exceed minimum requirements set out in standards
Dimensional assessment
Dimensional assessment determines the fit of product to the size of the intended population
FIRA International Ergonomics Excellence Award Holders
Companies awarded by FIRA International for their design and manufacture of ergonomically excellent products
Knowledge hub
Furniture industry guides, research, standards information, and more.....
Gold Certification
Our Gold Product and Installation Certification will help you stand out from the competition
Testing services
Use our comprehensive testing services to evaluate the safety, durability, and structural adequacy of your product
Certified Companies
FIRA Compliance Scheme certified companies, Compliance scheme for the Fire performance of upholstered furniture, furniture flammability compliance
FAQ's
FIRA Compliance scheme for the Fire performance of upholstered furniture, furniture flammability compliance, FIRA Compliance scheme FAQs
Our Technicians
Trained in-house to the highest standard, our technicians are based throughout the UK
FIRA Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture
Flammability - Show your commitment to compliance with the fire safety Regulations
Consumer benefits of FIRA Gold
The benefits of purchasing products with FIRA International Gold Certification
FIRA International Gold Installation Certification for Independent Retailers
Even small companies with a turnover under £5 m can achieve certification
Club Green
Health, safety and environmental legislation service for the furniture industry
Upholstery buying guide
Foams, fillings, fabrics and more
Outdoor furniture
Options and advice on aftercare
Kitchen buying guide
What to consider for kitchen purchases
Cabinets
Choose cabinet furniture that's right for you
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Need some in-house test equipment? Our experts can design and build equipment to your specification
Ergonomic services
Our highly qualified experts can help you maximise the comfort, safety and efficiency of your products
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Our furniture industry specialists, who have wide ranging expertise, are here to help
The Furniture Industry Research Association Council
Furniture Industry Research Association
About membership
Benefits of membership and how we support the industry
News
Furniture Industry Research Association share updates to standards and other key matters
- Archived 31st January, 2020
Three new standards
Furniture Industry Research Association share updates to standards and other key matters
- Archived 30th June, 2020
One of the main headlines is the publication of a new standard
EN 16139: 2013 – Strength, durability, and safety – requirements for non-domestic seating
- Archived 30th September, 2020
Your chance to feedback on a revision
New standard for office desks
- Archived 22nd November, 2019
BS EN 527-2: 2016 + A1: 2019 Office furniture. Work tables. Part 2
New standard for furniture hardware published
- Archived 21st December, 2019
BS EN 15939: 2019 Hardware for furniture
Standards meeting report
- Archived 11th April, 2019
CEN TC 207 WG9, the European Standards committee that develops common test methods for furniture standards
Standards meeting report – Seating
- Archived 28th July, 2019
Key topic for discussion was ISO 7173 Furniture — Chairs and stools — Determination of strength and durability
Standards meeting report – Tables
- Archived 28th February, 2020
Development of ISO 19682 Furniture — Tables — Test methods for the determination of stability, strength and durability
Standards meeting report – Beds
- Archived 4th March, 2020
Developing the standard ISO WD 23769 Furniture-Mattresses-Test methods for the determination of functional characteristics
Standards meeting report – domestic furniture
- Archived 11th October, 2019
A meeting of CEN TC207 WG1, the European standards committee tasked with producing standards for domestic furniture
Standards meeting report – kitchen furniture
- Archived 4th March, 2020
International Standards committee responsible or looking at standardising the sizes of kitchen furniture
European Standards meeting – outdoor furniture
- Archived 23rd March, 2020
The meeting focused on potential revisions of two standards - EN 581-1 and EN 581-2
Standards meeting report – Storage furniture
- Archived 21st March, 2020
Meeting covered issues identified during the drafting of the revised standard ISO 7170
Standards Meeting Report – domestic furniture
- Archived 29th February, 2020
Insights from CEN TC 207 WG1 (the committee responsible for developing European Standards for domestic furniture)
Standards committee report – Bunk beds
- Archived 19th September, 2020
Preparation of draft revision of EN 747-1: 2012 + A1: 2015 Furniture. Bunk beds and high beds
Standards meeting report – Motorised furniture
- Archived 10th August, 2020
Key areas to address are stability, strength and durability and entrapment.
Standards meeting report – Domestic furniture
- Archived 18th May, 2020
covered a range of topics including motorised furniture, swivel chairs, foldaway beds and more...
Latest updates to standards
- Archived 31st October, 2019
Summary includes details of four new standards
Final standards update for 2018
- Archived 31st July, 2019
Details of new standards and updates to others
Standards meeting report: non-domestic furniture
- Archived 16th September, 2020
Suggested priority standards for development within CEN TC207 during the current pandemic
Standards Meeting Report - hardware for furniture
- Archived 2nd October, 2019
Draft standards for corrosion performance of hardware and also star bases for swivelling chairs
Standards meeting report – Non-domestic furniture
- Archived 14th May, 2020
Meeting covered work on amendments to EN 15372 and EN 16121
Standards meeting report – Test methods for furniture
- Archived 23rd September, 2020
Development of technical report for testing seating used by people weighing over 110kg; review of EN 1022: 2018
Standards Meeting Report - PAS 7050 Steering Group
- Archived 30th March, 2020
Development of new specification for bringing safe products to market
Standards meeting report – Test methods for furniture
- Archived 12th May, 2020
Meeting covered issues related to motorised furniture, foams and mattresses and seating
Latest updates to Standards published
- Archived 13th June, 2019
The latest Quarterly Standards Update is now available to all members of the Association.
Standards meeting report - Remanufacturing
- Archived 16th March, 2020
Meeting of the Technical Product Realisation Committee for BS8887:220
Updates to standards and other key matters
- Archived 25th September, 2020
Latest summary of standards, including publication of two new standards
Standards meeting report – outdoor furniture
- Archived 21st March, 2020
Includes three main standards for outdoor furniture (EN 581 Parts 1, 2 & 3)
Standards meeting report – Electrical furniture
- Archived 4th March, 2020
Task Group meeting to liaise with IEC TC61 who have been developing an electrical standard for furniture
France issues update to list of reference standards under Childcare Decree 91-1292
- Archived 28th September, 2019
For the prevention of risks arising from the use of childcare articles
New standard for seating published
- Archived 21st May, 2019
A new European Standard for assessing the stability of seating has been published.
New document for surface finish assessment published
- Archived 13th December, 2019
PD CEN/TR 17292: 2018 Technical report regarding precision data for various standards
New European standard for childcare furniture published
- Archived 8th June, 2020
BS EN 1130: 2019 Children’s furniture. Cribs
Preventing furniture tip-over
- Archived 30th April, 2020
New York enacts Harper’s Law
New European Standard for Office Seating published
- Archived 14th June, 2019
BS EN 1335-2: 2018 Office furniture. Office Work Chair. Safety Requirements
Confirmation of standard for cot mattresses
- Archived 22nd November, 2019
European standard BS EN 16890: 2017 Children’s furniture – Mattresses for cots and cribs
European Standard for Cots amended
- Archived 21st March, 2020
Corrigendum published modifying requirements for footholds
Children’s furniture standard - BS EN 16120: 2012 +A2: 2016
- Archived 20th July, 2019
BS EN 16120: 2012 +A2: 2016 has had a minor change.
New European Standard for assessing furniture surfaces published
- Archived 7th February, 2020
BS EN 17214: 2019 Visual assessment of furniture surfaces
Furniture standards confirmed
- Archived 26th March, 2019
A number of British and European standards have gone through the five year review period and have been reconfirmed, a process that means the standards in their current form will remain in force.
Standards meeting report – Hardware for furniture
- Archived 14th June, 2019
The working group discussed two new draft standards.
Furniture standards meeting report
- Archived 2nd June, 2019
CEN TC207 is the European Standard Committee responsible for producing furniture standards. It recently held it’s Plenary meeting in Milan, Italy.
New Standards Meeting Report from Europe
- Archived 27th May, 2017
A meeting of the Standards Committee responsible for producing furniture standards, CEN TC207, was recently held in Paris.
The meeting was wide ranging covering current and future development of standards for furniture, as well as an EU approach to developing International Standards (ISO).
FIRA Quarterly Standards Update Report - September 2016
- Archived 12th October, 2017
Even though the summer months are traditionally quieter, standards making, both at an International and European level, has continued at a pace, with a number of significant developments across a range of product types.
British Standards for kitchen furniture to be revised
- Archived 31st October, 2017
At a recent meeting at BSI in London it was agreed that the two main British Standards for kitchen units are to be updates:
FIRA Quarterly Standards Update Report - June 2016
- Archived 12th October, 2017
The end of May heralded the annual CEN standards plenary meeting for furniture where forthcoming work items are agreed and progress on existing European Standards development is assessed. In addition, an International Standards meeting for furniture is scheduled to be held in Denmark.
Standards meeting report - Safety of child use and child care products
- Archived 27th September, 2020
Meeting covered changing units, safety barriers cots and bedding
New Chair for BSI FW/0 furniture standards committee
- Archived 20th June, 2019
Phil Reynolds has been confirmed as the Chair of the FW/0 furniture standards committee.
Report from European Standards meeting – Stability of seating
- Archived 12th October, 2017
A meeting of the European Standards Committee developing test method standards for furniture, CEN TC 207 WG9, recently met in Nuremberg. The working group, chaired by FIRA’s Phil Reynolds met to discuss a proposed draft revision of EN 1022 Furniture. Seating. Determination of stability.
Office of Product Safety & Standards Publishes Latest EUTR Enforcement Activity
- Archived 9th July, 2020
Have you fulfilled your obligations under the legislation?
Baby Products Association technical meeting report - February 2019
- Archived 26th December, 2019
Key topics included possibility of new Standard for mattresses used in moses baskets and carrycot.
Baby Products Association technical meeting report - November 2019
- Archived 18th May, 2020
Key topics covered at this latest meeting included the possible revision of BS 1877 Part 10
Revised safety guidelines for children's products published
- Archived 18th July, 2019
The third part of CEN Technical Report 13387 (PD CEN/TR 13387-3:2018) has been published.
Standards meeting update
- Archived 12th October, 2017
CEN TC207 WG9, the European Standards committee responsible for developing test method standards, and chaired by FIRA’s Phil Reynolds, recently met in Paris.
European standard for infant swings amended
- Archived 28th August, 2019
BS EN 16232: 2013+ A1: 2018 Child use and care articles - Infant swings
Furniture Industry Research Association summarise final quarter activity
- Archived 1st December, 2019
Standards, new guidance, Brexit and more.
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 14th March
- Archived 22nd September, 2019
Covering regulations and standards – REACH, goods, product safety
UK furniture fire safety regulations – revision process commences
- Archived 24th October, 2020
OPSS outlined its aims of maintaining (or increasing) the current level of fire safety
OPS&S - Strengthening national capacity for product safety: Strategy 2018-2020
- Archived 14th August, 2019
New Office of Product Safety & Standards releases first strategy document.
New BFC 2018 Manifesto specifies its calls for action for Government support
- Archived 30th June, 2019
The manifesto calls for cooperation and support for training, exports, standards and regulations and the environment.
New Technical Report for childcare products published
- Archived 4th May, 2020
This Technical Report is designed to help both standard makers draft standards and manufacturers supply suitable markings, instructions and warnings.
New US Furniture standard published
- Archived 7th June, 2019
The US standards making body ANSI has collaborated with US office Furniture manufacturers association BIFMA to publish a new standard for seating
Baby Products Association technical meeting report
- Archived 3rd June, 2019
The Baby Products Association (BPA) plays an active role in the development of product technical standards as well as providing support and specialist services to its members. Their Technical Committee is made up of manufacturers, retailers and other organisations including the Furniture Industry Research Association who have an interest in the safety of childcare products.
FEMB Technical Committee Meeting Report - September 2016
- Archived 12th October, 2017
On Friday 16th September FIRA took part in the latest FEMB Technical Committee meeting in Milan, on behalf of the BCFA. The European Technical Committee[1] meets regularly as a cross-country team of experts to review European norms and standards and monitors proposed changes in regulation.
New Furniture Design Toolkit for Domestic Furniture now available
- Archived 12th October, 2018
The Furniture Design Toolkit for the domestic sector is the only design resource to contain this highly valuable information, provided by industry experts...
New standard for office furniture published
- Archived 31st March, 2020
ANSI-BIFMA X5.9: 2019 Storage units
Technical Forum announced for the contract and office furniture sector (new date)
- Archived 31st January, 2019
The Forum, taking place on 14th November, boasts a diverse agenda.
Office and contract furniture technical forum update
- Archived 18th June, 2019
Resources are now available to members.
New order relating to potential safety issues of consumer products
- Archived 28th November, 2019
Consumer Rights Act 2015 (Enforcement) (Amendment) Order 2019 No. 1074
Annual Review
- Archived 28th February, 2020
Covers 2018, with an outlook to 2019 activities
BA recognised with second FIRA Gold certification at their BA Clic Components factory in Rotherham
- Archived 3rd April, 2019
This follows on from a previous Gold certification awarded in 2010.
New FIRA Gold Certification for Claremont Centre
- Archived 31st July, 2020
Certification for ‘Brae Sit Stand Desk’
Consultation on updating Furniture and Furnishings Fire Safety Regulations
- Archived 12th October, 2017
FIRA was informed yesterday that the Government has re-started the consultation into a potential revision of the fire safety regulations for upholstered furniture. FIRA is currently analysing the proposals and will be arranging some workshops to discuss this further and to define the Furniture Industry Research Association’s response to the proposals.
Mobus first fabric supplier to gain ‘Certified Company’ status under compliance scheme
- Archived 31st January, 2020
They underwent thorough audit of processes and procedures
Latest member knowledge and resources
- Archived 31st May, 2020
Catch up on anything you may have missed
FIRA Gold for Wade Spring
- Archived 15th June, 2017
Leading manufacturer of spring based seating products for the Furniture industry, Wade Spring Ltd has achieved FIRA Gold Product Certification for its Zig Zag Sinuous Springs.
FIRA International continues expansion programme
- Archived 31st December, 2019
Members receive preferential rates on FIRA International testing
FIRA Invests in Testing Division
- Archived 12th October, 2017
FIRA International has recently completed two investment projects, totalling £50,000 as part of its ongoing plans to update its test facility in Stevenage.
Government call for evidence on the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- Archived 1st August, 2019
The Home Office has launched a call for evidence seeking feedback by 31 July 2019
New cot bumper standard expected to be published
- Archived 17th January, 2019
Impact, and likelihood, of a new European standard for cot bumpers.
UK Government minister: UK furniture industry makes a 'great contribution to our country'
- Archived 31st October, 2019
Westminster Hall debate examined contribution of furniture manufacturing to economy
New leadership at FIRA International
- Archived 31st October, 2019
Lee Wade appointed General Manager of FIRA International
Herman Miller receives FIRA Ergonomics Excellence Award
- Archived 31st August, 2020
Four chairs within the Cosm range are included in the award
Andrew Story from Moores Furniture Group joins Council
- Archived 20th December, 2019
Kitchen sector bolstered on the Research Association Council
Report into current and alternative flame retardant technologies for furniture and furnishings
- Archived 12th October, 2017
Cause for concern over the potential toxicity of some flame retardant chemicals has prompted the UK's largest furniture association to investigate further.
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum 7th February 2019
- Archived 20th August, 2019
Meeting notes available from the second forum
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum 31st January 2019
- Archived 28th August, 2020
The forum is likely to be hosted on a weekly basis until March 2019
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 14th February covering data and organisational compliance
- Archived 20th August, 2019
Summary notes from meeting and Government information leaflets on EU exit business readiness
Importing and exporting preparations in the event of a no-deal Brexit
- Archived 16th October, 2019
Webinar summary - importing and exporting preparations to take in the event of no-deal Brexit.
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 28th February - Public Procurement and Changes to EU funding
- Archived 11th September, 2019
Summary notes from meeting and Government information
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 21st February covering Workforce & People and Intellectual Property
- Archived 1st September, 2019
Summary notes from meeting and Government information leaflets on EU exit business readiness
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 11th April
- Archived 17th October, 2019
The forum aims to share the information businesses need to prepare for EU Exit
EU Exit Business Readiness Forum meeting on 21st March
- Archived 2nd October, 2019
Focus on digital and data
Knowledge Hub
Standards Update Report - September 2018 -
Archived 5th March, 2019
Standards Update Report - December 2018 -
Archived 1st October, 2019
Standards meeting reports archive -
Archived 1st November, 2018
Standards Update Report - September 2019 -
Archived 23rd March, 2020
Details of new furniture related standards and standards in development
Standards Update Report - December 2019 -
Archived 30th June, 2020
Details of new furniture related standards and standards in development
Standards Update Report - June 2018 -
Archived 5th March, 2019
Standards Update Report - June 2019 -
Archived 31st December, 2019
Standards Update Report - March 2019 -
Archived 1st October, 2019
Product Selection for the furniture supply chain -
Archived 9th October, 2020
Report on 'Real-life' UK kitchen study findings -
Archived 31st December, 2017