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HS Classification / Description of Product
Furniture
The legislation provides safety, performance, and environmental impact requirements across the EU, and specific requirements relate to the material and /or its use
HS classification
The tariff classification of furniture depends on the material they’re made from as well as their specific use: whether the furniture is presented as a complete unit or as separate parts; any special features or materials used.
Below are the main HS classifications.
- Seats (chairs, sofas, etc.)
- HS Code: 9401
- Description: Seats (other than those of heading 9402), whether or not convertible into beds, and parts thereof
Subcategories include:
- 9401.10: Seats of a kind used for aircraft
- 9401.20: Seats of a kind used for motor vehicles
- 9401.30: Swivel seats with variable height adjustment
- 9401.40: Seats other than garden seats or camping equipment, convertible into beds
- 9401.52-59: Seats of cane, osier, bamboo or similar materials
- 9401.61-69: Other seats, with wooden frames
- 9401.71-79: Other seats, with metal frames
- 9401.80: Other seats
- Medical, Surgical, Dental or Veterinary Furniture
- HS Code: 9402
- Description: Medical, surgical, dental or veterinary furniture; barbers’ chairs and similar chairs; parts of the foregoing articles
- Other Furniture and Parts
- HS Code: 9403
- Description: Other furniture and parts thereof
Subcategories include:
- 9403.10: Metal furniture of a kind used in offices
- 9403.20: Other metal furniture
- 9403.30: Wooden furniture of a kind used in offices
- 9403.40: Wooden furniture of a kind used in the kitchen
- 9403.50: Wooden furniture of a kind used in the bedroom
- 9403.60: Other wooden furniture
- 9403.70: Furniture of plastics
- 9403.82-89: Furniture of other materials, including cane, osier, bamboo or similar materials
General Requirements
General Product Safety Requirements
EU legislation
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) – Regulation (EU) 2023/988 applies to all consumer products.
Short summary
Under the GPSR, furniture must not present any risk or only the minimum risks compatible with the product’s use. This could include considerations such as:
- Risk of injury from broken glass
- Hazards related to opening and closing mechanisms
- Risks to children (e.g., fall prevention)
- Monitoring product safety
- Providing warnings to consumers
- Recalling products if necessary
Domestic legislation
The General Product Safety Law of 2004
*Due to modify and include new Regulation (EU) 2023/988.
*Current link – referring to previous Regulation 2001/95.
*New Regulation in full effect 13th December 2024.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism.
Important information
RAPEX system: Serious risks identified with furniture could be reported through the Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products (RAPEX) established under the GPSR. Also, post-market obligations: The GPSR imposes obligations on producers and distributors even after the product is placed on the market, such as:
Monitoring product safety
Providing warnings to consumers
Recalling products if necessary.
Other useful material
The General Product Safety Regulation requires covered products to have a responsible person related to them who is located in the EU.
Producers are obliged to place only safe products on the market. When the manufacturer is not established in the EU, this obligation applies to his representative in the EU or, in the absence of a representative, to the importer
Product specific standard
Short summary
Furniture – Strength, durability and safety – Requirements for domestic seating
Important information
This European standard specifies the minimum requirements for the safety, strength and durability of all types of domestic seating for adults
REACH
EU legislation
Short summary
Registration of chemical substances with ECHA if imported >1 tonne/year.
Annex XVII to REACH lists types of substances that may be used in furniture, or in the materials used to make furniture.
Domestic legislation
Main law:
The Chemical Substances Law of 2020 (L. 119(I)/2020)
Additionally, secondary legislation / regulation:
Regulatory Administrative Acts 380/2020, 381/2020, 382/2020, 383/2020, 384/2020
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance, Department of Labour Inspection
CE Marking
EU legislation
Short summary
Required for certain types of furniture, especially those with mechanical or electrical components.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Interior, Construction Products Sector, Technical Services
Important information
Construction works as a whole and in their separate parts must be fit for their intended use, taking account in particular of the health and safety of the persons involved in the entire life cycle of the structure.
Technical Documentation
EU legislation
The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) (2001/95/EC)
& Construction Products Regulation (EU) No 305/2011
Short summary
Including assembly instructions, care guidelines, and material specifications.
Key Elements of Technical Documentation for Furniture:
- Design and Manufacturing Specifications: Detailed technical drawings, material specifications, and manufacturing processes.
- Safety Compliance: Evidence that the furniture complies with EU safety standards, including risk assessments, test results, and certification.
- Chemical Safety: Documentation showing that the furniture does not contain hazardous chemicals beyond permissible levels, such as formaldehyde or heavy metals.
- Performance Testing: Test results that show the furniture meets relevant performance standards, such as durability, flammability, and structural stability.
- Environmental Impact: Information on the sustainability of materials, recyclability, and the environmental impact of the production process.
Instructions and Manuals: Comprehensive instructions on the use, maintenance, and assembly of the furniture, where applicable.
Domestic legislation
The Basic Requirements for Specified Product Categories Laws of 2002 and 2003 R.A.A. 832/2003 – (Regulation on basic requirements relating to construction products)
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry
Ministry of Interior Construction Products Sector, Technical Services
Important information
Basic requirements do not refer to construction products but to construction works in which these products are to be incorporated
Consumer Protection
EU legislation
Short summary
Consumer Protection Legislation applies to furniture, ensuring that consumers are provided with accurate information about products and their warranties.
Furniture must meet the quality expectations and warranties that are clearly stated.
Key Requirements: Consumer rights ensure that defective furniture can be returned or repaired. The Consumer Sales and Guarantees Directive sets out the conditions under which goods must be free of defects and provides guarantees for a certain period after purchase.
Product Information
EU legislation
Product Information Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011
Short summary
While this regulation primarily applies to food products, certain aspects of it influence furniture in terms of clear consumer information. The regulation is aligned with the broader aim of ensuring transparency and informed choices.
Key Requirements: Clear and Accurate Information: Furniture products must have clear labelling that includes product details such as dimensions, materials used, maintenance instructions, and safety warnings, where applicable.
Quality Management System (QMS)
EU legislation
Short summary
Although not a legally binding, ISO 9001:2015 is a widely adopted international standard for quality management systems. Many furniture manufacturers adhere to it to improve their processes, including transport and storage.
Transport and Storage under ISO 9001:2015:
- The furniture must be stored in conditions that prevent deterioration and damage, ensuring the products’ quality is maintained throughout the supply chain.
The transportation process should follow documented procedures to ensure efficiency and traceability, and product defects or damages during transport should be documented and addressed.
Eco-design
Short summary
The ESPR aims to significantly improve the sustainability of products placed on the EU market by improving their circularity, energy performance, recyclability and durability
Traceability
Short summary
It requires that furniture products are traceable throughout the supply chain.
Traceability of furniture:
- Manufacturers and distributors must keep records of transportation routes, handling procedures, and storage conditions for furniture, particularly for high-value or sensitive products.
- Barcode systems or QR codes can help improve the traceability of furniture during transport and storage.
A system ensuring the traceability of the materials back to their manufacturer.
Consumer rights
Short summary
The directive establishes minimum consumer rights for the sale of consumer goods, including furniture. It ensures that consumers are informed about their rights regarding defective or non-conforming products.
Key Requirements:
- Labelling of Warranty Information: Furniture products must be labelled with information on any warranties or guarantees offered, ensuring consumers are aware of their right to a refund, repair, or replacement if the product is faulty.
Traceability in Case of Defects: The manufacturer or distributor must be able to trace the product in case of a defect or recall, which is essential for providing appropriate customer service and upholding consumer rights.
Consumer protection
EU legislation
Short summary
The Consumer Rights Directive regulates the rights of consumers purchasing goods, including kitchen furniture, within the EU.
Key requirements:
- Consumers must be clearly informed about product specifications, delivery details, and their right to return defective products.
After-sales support and warranties must meet EU standards, ensuring that consumers are protected if the furniture is defective or unsafe.
Furniture flammability
Short summary
Furniture that contains upholstered materials (such as sofas, chairs, and mattresses) must comply with fire safety standards. The EU sets out rules that limit the use of materials that are highly flammable and require specific testing methods to ensure they do not catch fire easily.
- EN 1021: This standard sets the test methods for flammability of upholstered furniture, including tests for fire resistance to smoldering and flaming combustion.
EN 597: Specifies the flammability testing for mattresses and bedding items.
Proof of origin
Short summary
Provide proof of origin
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Finance – Customs & Excise Department
Other useful material
The accompanying document shall be made out on forms corresponding to the specimen given in Annex I.
Specific requirements for wooden furniture
Control on illegal timber and timber products
EU legislation
Regulation (EC) 995/2010 – the EU Wood Regulation
Short summary
The placing on the EU market of illegally harvested timber and their derived products is prohibited.
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment), Forest Department
Important information
Timber and timber products will not have to comply with the requirements of this Regulation, since they will be considered to have been legally harvested, when presenting: a CITES certificate for certain species of timber; a FLEGT license.
Economic providers are required to provide annual trading license from the Department of Forestry and keep books and accounts.
Eco-label for wooden furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
The EU Ecolabel or ‘Flower logo’ is the official mark in the European Union (EU) for products with the lowest environmental impact in a product range
Domestic legislation
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Environment Department
Important information
Participation on the scheme is voluntary. This means that products can be sold within the EU market without the Flower logo and that there are no regulations which oblige to apply for the Ecolabel.
Furniture - General safety guidelines - Entrapment of fingers
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard contains the general safety philosophy, a guideline on the safety assessment that experts are recommended to use when drafting standards and guidance on specific general safety recommendations, and test methods, relating to hazards caused by holes and openings that are common to all types of furniture.
Specific requirements for non-domestic (office) furniture
Office Chairs
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 1335 is one of the primary standards that apply to office chairs in the EU.
It is divided into several parts:
- EN 1335-1: Dimensions of office furniture chairs.
- EN 1335-2: Safety requirements for office chairs, including stability, strength, and safety of moving parts.
EN 1335-3: Test methods for office chairs to ensure that they meet the required safety and performance standards.
Important information
This standard covers aspects like the strength of chair bases, backrests, stability, and the durability of adjustments for height, armrests, and back support.
Furniture – Strength, Durability, and Safety of Non-Domestic Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 16139 applies to the safety, strength, and durability of non-domestic furniture, including office furniture like desks, tables, and chairs.
It covers:
- Strength and Durability: Ensuring that office furniture is durable enough for regular use in business environments.
- Safety: Preventing risks of injury from broken parts, sharp edges, or other hazards.
Stability: Ensuring the furniture is stable and does not tip over easily, particularly important for office chairs and workstations.
Domestic Furniture – Chairs – Determination of Stability
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 1022 outlines the test methods for evaluating the stability of chairs, which is crucial for office seating.
The standard involves tipping tests and stability assessments to ensure that office chairs can safely support the weight of the user.
Office Furniture – Desks and Tables
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 527 sets requirements for the design and construction of office desks and workstations, focusing on user ergonomics and the durability of the furniture.
It includes multiple parts:
- EN 527-1: General requirements for office desks, including dimensions and ergonomics.
- EN 527-2: Test methods for determining the strength and stability of office desks.
- EN 527-3: Specific requirements for height-adjustable desks, ensuring they meet the needs of users in a variety of work positions.
Furniture - Tables - Determination of stability
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard covers stability tests for chairs and tables, including those used in domestic, office, and contract environments (e.g., hospitality, schools, etc.).
It applies to tables with a horizontal surface for work or dining purposes.
Furniture – Foldaway beds – Safety requirements and testing
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard is part of a series that addresses the stability of tables used in both domestic and contract furniture. EN 1129-2 outlines the testing procedures used to assess the stability of tables and provides specific criteria for their stability under various conditions.
Furniture fire retardant standards
EU legislation
Furniture fire retardant standards are crucial for ensuring that furniture products meet certain fire retardancy requirements to reduce risks to health and safety. These standards provide guidelines for materials, design, and construction of furniture to prevent or minimize the spread of fire
Short summary
EN 13772: establishes requirements for determining the burning behaviour / flammability of textiles and textile products – Curtains and drapes.
EN 1021-1: Ignition source smouldering cigarette
EN 1021-2: Ignition source match flame equivalent
EN 597-1: Mattresses and upholstered bed bases – Ignition source smouldering cigarette
EN 597-2: Mattresses and upholstered bed bases – Ignition source match flame equivalent
Furniture – Chairs and Tables for Educational Institutions
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 1729 applies to the dimensions and safety of furniture used in educational institutions but is also relevant to office furniture in environments like training rooms or offices with educational functions.
The standard ensures the furniture is suitable for the size and ergonomics of the user, promoting comfort and health.
Furniture – Seating – Strength, Durability, and Safety Requirements
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 12520 is a standard for the strength, durability, and safety of seating furniture, applicable to office chairs.
It ensures that office chairs are durable and stable under normal usage conditions, and includes testing for chair frame strength, backrest safety, and durability of movable parts.
Ergonomics of Human-System Interaction
EU legislation
Short summary
ISO 9241-5 is a standard on ergonomics that applies to the design of workstations, including office furniture.
It provides guidelines on how office furniture should be designed to ensure comfort, safety, and efficiency for the user.
The standard covers factors such as adjustable chair height, back support, workspace dimensions, and furniture configuration to reduce strain and improve productivity.
Office Furniture – Storage Units and Furniture Components
Short summary
EN 14073 and EN 14074 cover the design and construction of office storage units and components (e.g., filing cabinets, bookcases, etc.).
These standards address issues such as stability, durability, and safety for office furniture pieces that are used for storage.
They include strength tests, load-bearing requirements, and guidelines for components like drawers and doors.
Specific requirements for children’s furniture
Furniture – Seating for Children
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard specifies safety requirements for children’s chairs and stools.
It addresses:
- Design: Ensures that the chair’s design minimizes any risk of injury.
- Strength: The chair must be strong enough to support the weight of the child without breaking.
Safety Features: Ensures there are no sharp edges, pinch points, or other features that could harm the child.
Children’s highchairs
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies safety requirements for free standing children’s high chairs that elevate children to dining table height usually for the purposes of feeding or eating. Children’s high chairs are for children up to 3 years of age who are capable of sitting unaided.
With the exception of special high chairs for medical purposes, this standard applies to children’s high chairs for domestic and non-domestic use.
Furniture and Safety standards
EU legislation
(Bunk Beds and High Beds)
Short summary
This is a European harmonized standard for children’s beds, specifically bunk beds and high beds.
Main requirements:
- Furniture designed for children, such as bunk beds, must meet specific safety standards to ensure that they prevent accidents like falling from the bed.
- The regulations set requirements for things like guardrails, ladder stability, and the structural integrity of the furniture.
Products must undergo specific testing for strength and stability under real-world conditions.
Furniture for Children (Cots and Cribs)
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard applies specifically to children’s cots and cribs to ensure that they are safe for infants and toddlers.
Main requirements:
- The dimensions of the cot or crib must be suitable to prevent entrapment or suffocation risks.
- Cots must have appropriate mattress support and stability to ensure they do not tip over.
- Cots should not have dangerous gaps or sharp edges that could injure the child.
There must be guidelines for the type of materials used (such as non-toxic paints or coatings).
Changing Tables for Babies
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard applies to changing tables used for babies.
Main Requirements:
- The changing table must be designed to prevent accidents, with adequate safety measures such as restraints or safety rails.
Non-toxic materials must be used to avoid chemical exposure, and the furniture must meet load-bearing capacity tests to prevent collapse.
Toy Safety
EU legislation
Short summary
Although this directive is primarily intended for toys, it has relevance for children’s furniture that includes toys or play components (e.g., furniture with integrated toy storage or interactive parts).
Main Requirements:
- Toys and children’s furniture with toy elements must be designed to minimize the risk of choking, sharp edges, or toxic chemicals.
Furniture containing small parts must undergo risk assessments to ensure that they do not present a danger for children under 3 years old.
Safety of Toys (Toys Safety Directive)
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 71 is a set of standards related to the safety of toys, which includes many elements relevant to children’s furniture, especially for items like toy storage and play furniture.
It focuses on:
- Chemical Safety: Ensures that children’s furniture and toys are free from hazardous chemicals such as lead, phthalates, and other toxins.
Mechanical Safety: Ensures that toys or furniture components do not have sharp edges or small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
Safety of Toys (International Standard)
EU legislation
Short summary
Although this standard primarily covers toys, ISO 8124 is relevant to any furniture items that might be used by children as part of play, ensuring that these items are free from hazards such as sharp edges, small parts, and toxic materials.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Furniture for Children
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 61340 sets standards for ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) safe furniture, which is important for children who may be interacting with electronic equipment.
It ensures a static charge control: Prevents static build-up on furniture, which could affect sensitive electronic devices and pose a risk to children.
Carcinogens and Mutagens
EU legislation
Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (2004/37/EC)
Short summary
This directive provides rules on the use of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reprotoxic substances in materials, which can apply to certain paints, varnishes, and other surface treatments used, for example, in children’s furniture or kitchen furniture.
Main Requirements: furniture manufacturers must avoid using harmful chemicals that may expose children /people to risks such as cancer, birth defects, or genetic mutations.
Specific requirements for outdoor furniture
Outdoor Furniture – Seating and Tables
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 581 is a set of standards that applies to seating and tables designed for outdoor use. It specifies the safety, strength, and durability requirements for outdoor furniture to ensure it can withstand the challenges of outdoor environments such as weather, wear, and exposure to UV radiation.
EN 581-1: General safety requirements for outdoor furniture.
EN 581-2: Requirements for seating furniture (e.g., chairs, benches).
EN 581-3: Requirements for tables (e.g., garden tables, picnic tables).
The standard includes:
- Safety Requirements: Ensures furniture does not pose any hazards like sharp edges, instability, or tipping.
- Strength and Durability: Ensures that the furniture can withstand normal use and is resistant to wear, rust, and other damage caused by outdoor conditions.
- Environmental Resistance: Ensures that the materials used are suitable for exposure to different weather conditions (e.g., rain, sun, temperature variations).
Weatherproofing: Ensures that materials such as wood, metal, or plastic are treated to withstand outdoor conditions like moisture, UV exposure, and extreme temperatures.
Furniture – Strength and Durability – Seating Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 1728 applies to seating furniture used both indoors and outdoors. It covers testing for strength and durability of various types of seating furniture, including outdoor chairs, benches, and loungers.
It includes:
- Testing for Load: Ensures that seating furniture can bear the weight of users and remains stable during use.
Durability Tests: Assesses how well furniture holds up after repeated use, including ensuring that materials like fabric, wood, and metal are durable under outdoor conditions.
Furniture – Surface Durability of Tables and Worktops
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 12720 relates to the durability of surfaces on furniture used in outdoor environments, such as table tops and work surfaces.
Key areas covered:
- Scratch Resistance: Ensures that surfaces of outdoor tables and other furniture are resistant to scratching and other types of damage.
- Stain Resistance: Ensures that materials used for table surfaces (such as laminate or wood) resist stains from outdoor elements like food, beverages, and environmental contaminants.
Moisture and UV Resistance: Assesses how well surfaces endure exposure to moisture, sunlight, and other outdoor conditions.
Outdoor Furniture – Material Requirements for Outdoor Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 13621 establishes general requirements for the materials used in outdoor furniture, including testing for their resistance to environmental elements like moisture, UV radiation, and temperature variations.
This standard ensures that materials used are:
- Weatherproof: Resistant to rust, corrosion, fading, and decay caused by exposure to the elements.
- Non-Toxic: Ensures that materials like paints, varnishes, and treatments are free from hazardous substances.
Sustainable: Encourages the use of environmentally -friendly and recyclable materials in outdoor furniture production.
Safety Requirements for Glass Used in Outdoor Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 12150 outlines the safety requirements for tempered glass used in furniture, including glass used in outdoor tables and other furniture.
This standard focuses on:
- Strength and Impact Resistance: Ensures that glass used in outdoor furniture can withstand outdoor conditions such as accidental impacts.
Safety when Broken: Ensures that when the glass breaks, it shatters into small, less dangerous pieces to minimize injury risks.
Furniture – Folding Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
While EN 12520 is the general standard for the strength, durability, and safety of domestic furniture, it provides guidelines that are relevant for folding mechanisms, such as in folding tables, chairs, and other types of furniture that use a foldable or extendable design.
It specifies the safety and durability requirements for folding outdoor furniture, such as folding chairs, tables, and loungers.
It covers:
- Safety: Ensures that folding mechanisms are safe and that furniture remains stable when folded or in use.
Durability: Ensures that the folding mechanisms and materials can withstand repeated folding and unfolding without failure.
Fire Classification of Construction Products and Building Elements - Classification Using Data from Reaction to Fire Tests
EU legislation
Short summary
If the folding outdoor furniture involves materials such as textiles (upholstery), this standard may apply to evaluate its fire resistance.
The furniture must meet the requirements for fire classification to ensure it does not pose a fire hazard, especially in public or commercial outdoor spaces.
Corrosion Tests in Artificial Atmospheres - Salt Spray Tests
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard is relevant for outdoor furniture made of metal or materials prone to corrosion.
It establishes test procedures for evaluating the corrosion resistance of materials used in outdoor furniture, ensuring the furniture will resist rust and degradation when exposed to the elements.
Specific requirements for bath furniture
Furniture – Bath and Shower Furniture – Requirements for Functional and Performance Criteria
Short summary
These specific standards apply to bath and shower furniture, setting requirements for performance and functional criteria.
It includes guidelines for furniture designed for use in wet or humid areas such as bathroom cabinets, vanities, and shower caddies.
The standard focuses on the moisture resistance and material properties of bathroom furniture to ensure they can perform well and maintain their quality in challenging conditions.
Furniture – Assessment of Surface Resistance to Wetting
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard is relevant to bathroom furniture surfaces, particularly countertops, vanities, and shelving. It assesses how water-resistant the surface materials are and ensures that they will perform well in wet conditions typical of a bathroom environment.
The standard tests how well furniture surfaces withstand water exposure without damage.
Visual assessment of furniture surfaces
EU legislation
Short summary
EN 17214 addresses the safety, performance, and durability requirements for bathroom furniture. It includes guidelines on materials, design, and construction of bathroom furniture to ensure that it can withstand the conditions typically found in bathrooms, such as high humidity, exposure to water, and changes in temperature.
Specific requirements for kitchen furniture (If integrated appliances are included, compliance with relevant electrical safety directives).
Domestic and Kitchen Storage Furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
This is a harmonized standard specific to storage furniture, including cabinets and drawers commonly used in kitchens.
Key Requirements:
- Furniture designed for kitchen use must be stable and durable enough to withstand daily use.
- Specific load tests are required to ensure that the furniture can bear weight safely, especially for items like kitchen cabinets, countertops, and drawers.
Safety features, such as child-proof mechanisms on kitchen cabinets or drawers, may also apply depending on the design and intended market.
Materials and Articles in Contact with Food
EU legislation
Short summary
Kitchen furniture often involves materials that come into direct contact with food (e.g., countertops, cabinets, and work surfaces).
Key Requirements:
- Materials used in kitchen furniture must be safe for contact with food, meaning they cannot release harmful substances into food.
- The regulation ensures that materials such as wood, plastics, metals, and coatings used in kitchen furniture comply with food safety standards.
Manufacturers must provide documentation of compliance for these materials, confirming that they do not contain harmful chemicals like heavy metals, phthalates, or other toxic substances.
Furniture. Kitchen furniture. Coordinating sizes for kitchen furniture and kitchen appliances
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies co-ordinating sizes for kitchen units, worktops, recess panelling, furniture fronts and decorative panels as well as for kitchen appliances (white goods and ovens) and further installation elements, e. g. sinks (abbreviated as “appliances”).
Specific requirements for medical furniture
Medical Device
EU legislation
Short summary
This regulation applies to medical devices in the EU, including medical furniture that is considered a medical device (e.g., examination chairs, operating tables, hospital beds, etc.).
The MDR covers safety, performance, and regulatory compliance for products intended for medical purposes. If the furniture is intended to be used for diagnosis, treatment, or monitoring of patients, it may fall under the definition of a medical device.
Domestic Competent authorities
Cyprus Medical Devices Competent Authority
Medical Electrical Equipment
EU legislation
Short summary
This series of standards applies to medical electrical equipment, including medical furniture that incorporates electrical components (e.g., hospital beds, examination tables, surgical chairs).
It focuses on safety requirements for medical electrical equipment, including:
- Electrical safety (e.g., insulation, grounding, and leakage current limits).
- Performance standards for electrical functions.
Key parts:
- EN 60601-1: General safety and performance requirements for medical electrical equipment.
- EN 60601-2-52: Particular requirements for medical beds (e.g., powered hospital beds).
EN 60601-2-19: Particular requirements for surgical tables.
Domestic Competent authorities
Cyprus Medical Devices Competent Authority
Furniture – Beds for Healthcare
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard applies to hospital beds, including those used in medical, surgical, dental, and veterinary settings.
It focuses on requirements for safety, stability, and performance of hospital beds, ensuring that they can withstand the weight and use in healthcare environments.
Key provisions:
- Structural integrity and safety in use.
- Hygiene requirements.
- Adjustability for ergonomic positioning (e.g., for patient comfort and medical procedures).
Specific requirements for electrical components (if applicable).
Domestic Competent authorities
Cyprus Medical Devices Competent Authority
Reaction to Fire Tests for Floor Coverings - Determination of the Burning Behaviour Using a Radiant Heat Source
EU legislation
Short summary
Standard relevant for medical furniture that incorporates materials like floor coverings in hospitals, clinics, or dental offices.
It ensures that materials used in medical settings meet fire safety standards to reduce risk during emergencies.
Laboratory furniture - Recommendations for design and installation
EU legislation
Short summary
This European Standard gives guidance for the installation of laboratory benches, storage units and services and their connections and fittings.
Specific requirements for surface’s furniture
Leather - Upholstery leather characteristics - Selection of leather for furniture
EU legislation
Short summary
The standard specifies sampling and test methods, and gives recommended values for, upholstery leather for furniture.
Furniture. Assessment of the surface reflectance
EU legislation
Short summary
This is a comprehensive standard that provides a detailed guide on how to accurately assess the surface reflectance of furniture. This standard is a must-have for furniture manufacturers, interior designers, and quality control professionals who aim to ensure the highest quality of furniture products.
Furniture - Assessment of the surface resistance to abrasion
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies a method for the assessment of the abrasion resistance of surfaces with glued paper based decor finish foils or glued polymer based foils, laminates, melamine faced boards, pigmented and transparent lacquers. It does not apply to leather and textile surfaces. It does not apply to the surfaces covered by EN 14434.
Furniture - Assessment of the surface gloss
EU legislation
Short summary
The purpose of this standard is to provide a method of measuring the gloss on the surfaces of furniture items, ensuring that the level of gloss meets the required specifications for different types of furniture finishes.
Gloss is often an essential aspect of the overall appearance of furniture, influencing its look and feel. For example, high-gloss finishes are often used for modern furniture designs, while satin or matte finishes may be preferred for more traditional or rustic styles.
Furniture -Tests for surfaces: Assessment of resistance to impact
EU legislation
Short summary
The specified method is suitable for use either as a means of comparing different finishing systems or as a quality control test to ensure that a specified performance level is achieved or maintained. The tests are carried out on panels of the same materials and finished in the identical manner as the finished furniture of a size sufficient to meet the requirements of the test. The degree of damage to the test area is assessed by reference to a descriptive numerical rating code
Furniture - Tests for surface finishes: Assessment of resistance to dry heat
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies a method for the assessment of the resistance to dry heat of all rigid furniture surfaces regardless of materials. It does not apply to leather and textile surfaces.
Hardware for furniture — Strength and durability of extension elements and their components
EU legislation
Short summary
This standard specifies test methods and requirements for the strength and durability of all types of extension elements and their components for all fields of application, except table extensions. With the exception of corrosion, ageing and the influence of heat and humidity are not covered in this standard
Hardware for furniture. Strength and durability of locking mechanisms
EU legislation
Short summary
This European Standard specifies test methods and requirements for the strength and durability of all types of locking mechanisms for furniture and their components for all fields of application.
This European Standard does not apply to latching mechanisms.
Furniture - Assessment of the effect of light exposure
EU legislation
Short summary
It focuses on evaluating how furniture and its materials respond to prolonged exposure to light, particularly in environments where furniture is exposed to sunlight or artificial lighting for extended periods. This standard is important for ensuring that the furniture maintains its visual appearance, material integrity, and performance over time.
Electrical safety in furniture
Low Voltage
EU legislation
Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU
Short summary
The Low Voltage Directive (LVD) applies to all electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits (50-1000V for alternating current and 75-1500V for direct current). Furniture containing electrical components, such as lighting systems or heating elements, must comply with this directive.
Main Requirements:
- Products must be safe when used in normal conditions, including all electrical parts.
- The furniture must meet the essential safety requirements concerning electrical hazards, like electric shock prevention and ensuring that electrical components are insulated or adequately protected.
- Manufacturers must assess and demonstrate compliance with the directive through a conformity assessment procedure and affix the CE marking to show that the product meets the necessary standards.
Instructions and warnings must be provided, especially if the furniture has components that could be hazardous to consumers (such as heating elements or exposed wiring).
Domestic Competent authorities
Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services
Electromagnetic compatbility
EU legislation
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU
Short summary
This directive ensures that electrical equipment does not generate or is not affected by electromagnetic disturbances that could affect other devices or communications. It applies to furniture that includes electrical components, like lights, heating systems, or electrical outlets.
Main Requirements:
- Electrical furniture must not interfere with other electronic equipment.
- Manufacturers must ensure that the electrical components of the furniture are shielded or designed in a way that minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- A CE marking is also required to show that the product meets the EMC requirements.
Domestic Competent authorities
Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services
Use of certain hazardous substances
Short summary
The RoHS Directive limits the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, which includes electrical components within furniture. It ensures that harmful substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants are not used in electrical parts of the furniture.
Main requirements:
- Furniture with electrical components must not exceed the maximum allowable concentrations of restricted substances.
Manufacturers must provide declarations of conformity to demonstrate that their products comply with RoHS restrictions.
Electrical and electronic waste
Short summary
The WEEE Directive regulates the collection, recycling, and disposal of electrical and electronic waste. It applies to furniture with electrical parts and ensures that producers are responsible for the recycling and proper disposal of their products once they are no longer in use.
Main requirements:
- Manufacturers and distributors of electrical furniture must ensure that their products are marked for easy identification and that consumers have access to information about how to dispose of the product properly at the end of its life.
- A WEEE symbol must be affixed to the furniture to indicate that it is an electrical or electronic item subject to recycling.
Domestic Competent authorities
Department of Electrical and Mechanical Services
Intellectual property rights related to furniture
Design Protection
EU legislation
Short summary
Design rights protect the aesthetic appearance of a product, such as the shape, color, pattern, and ornamentation of furniture.
If a company, for example, creates a unique table or chair design, it can apply for design protection under this regulation to ensure no other company can manufacture furniture with the same design.
Trademarks
EU legislation
Short summary
Trademarks protect the brand identity associated with furniture products, such as logos, brand names, and product names.
Patents
EU legislation
Short summary
Patents protect new inventions that provide a technical solution to a problem. This includes new technologies or functional aspects used in furniture.
If a company, for example, develops a new, innovative mechanism for a reclining chair or adjustable height desks, they can patent the technology used in the design.
Copyright
EU legislation
Short summary
Copyright protects the original work of authors, including furniture designers, particularly in relation to artistic designs.
For example, an artist who creates a unique sculpture-style chair with an intricate artistic design could have copyright protection for the design.
Geographical Indications
EU legislation
Applicable from 1 December 2025.
Article 19(1) and (2), Article 35(1) Article 37(7), Articles 67, 68 and 69, and Article 71(2) are applied from 16 November 2023.
Short summary
Geographical Indications can be applied to certain furniture products that are linked to a specific geographical area and have a reputation for quality.
Furniture producers in specific regions may use a GI to protect traditional techniques or craftsmanship that are unique to their area (e.g., “Scandinavian design” or “Italian furniture”).
Cultural and Antique Considerations (if applicable)
Cultural and Antique Considerations (if applicable for furniture)
Short summary
- Short summary
- Cultural property:
- Council Regulation (EC) No 116/2009 on the export of cultural goods.
- Council Directive 2014/60/EU on the return of cultural objects unlawfully removed from the territory of a Member State.
- Age and value thresholds:Different rules may apply depending on the age and value of the antique furniture. Generally, items over 100 years old and of significant value require special attention.
- Authenticity and provenance:
- Documentation proving the authenticity and provenance of antique furniture may be required.
- Antique furniture may contain materials now restricted (e.g., certain woods, ivory inlays). Special permits might be needed.
- Archaeological significance:
- If the furniture has potential archaeological value, additional regulations and checks may apply.
- Cultural Sensitivity:
- Be aware of any items that might be considered culturally sensitive or disputed heritage.
Domestic Competent authorities
Ministry of culture