what testing is necessary for hospitality furniture | Insights by MINGSUN

Essential Testing Standards for Hospitality Furniture Procurement

When procuring furniture for the hospitality industry, it's imperative to ensure that each piece meets stringent safety, durability, and environmental standards. This not only guarantees guest safety but also enhances the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the furnishings. Below are key testing standards and considerations to guide your procurement process:

1. Fire Safety Standards

Ensuring that furniture is fire-resistant is paramount in hospitality settings. Key standards include:

• ASTM E1537-22: This standard outlines the fire-test-response characteristics of upholstered furniture, measuring aspects like heat release rate and smoke production.

• BS 7176:2007+A1:2011: Specifies the resistance to ignition of upholstered furniture for non-domestic seating by testing composites under medium hazard conditions.

• California Technical Bulletin 117-2013 (TB 117-2013): Requires fabrics and foams to pass a smoldering test, ensuring they do not ignite when exposed to burning cigarettes.

2. Durability and Strength Testing

Furniture in hospitality environments undergoes heavy use, necessitating rigorous durability assessments:

• EN 16139:2013: Sets strength, durability, and safety requirements for non-domestic seating, ensuring furniture can withstand daily wear and tear.

• EN 15372:2016: Specifies strength, durability, and safety requirements for non-domestic tables, ensuring they can endure the rigors of commercial use.

3. Chemical Emissions and Environmental Compliance

Ensuring that furniture materials do not emit harmful chemicals is crucial:

• GB 18584-2024: A Chinese national standard that sets limits for harmful substances like formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds in furniture, effective from July 1, 2025.

• BS 5852: Evaluates the fire behavior of upholstered furniture and indoor decorative materials, assessing flame retardancy based on smoke density and combustion corrosion.

4. Cleanability and Maintenance

Furniture should be easy to clean and maintain, especially in high-traffic areas:

• ASTM G155: Standard practice for operating xenon arc light apparatus for exposure of non-metallic materials, simulating the effects of sunlight and weathering on materials.

• EN 12720:2009+A1:2013: Assesses surface resistance to cold liquids, ensuring that furniture surfaces can withstand spills without damage.

5. Structural Integrity and Safety

Ensuring the structural integrity of furniture is vital to prevent accidents:

• ASTM F2057: A voluntary safety specification intended to reduce injury and death from accidents involving the tip-over of clothing storage furniture.

• EN 1725:1998: Sets safety requirements and test methods for beds and mattresses, ensuring they are safe for domestic use.

6. Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability is increasingly important in furniture procurement:

• ISO 14001: An international standard specifying requirements for an effective environmental management system, ensuring that furniture manufacturers adhere to environmental best practices.

• FSC Certification: Ensures that wood products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Conclusion

Adhering to these standards ensures that hospitality furniture is safe, durable, and environmentally responsible. By prioritizing these testing protocols, you can enhance guest satisfaction and uphold the reputation of your establishment.

About MINGSUN

MINGSUN is committed to providing high-quality hospitality furniture that meets international standards. Our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety, durability, and environmental compliance, making us a trusted partner in the hospitality industry.