BS 8474:2013

Defines requirements and test methods for chairs with support surfaces the position of which can be adjusted electrically by the seated person and/or a responsible person, including riser chairs, recliner chairs and rise and recline chairs.

This British Standard specifies requirements and test methods for chairs with support surfaces the position of which can be adjusted electrically by the seated person and/or a responsible person, including riser chairs, recliner chairs and rise and recline chairs. It specifies chairs suitable for adult users weighing up to 110kg and up to 160kg, with a normal body mass distribution. The standard is applicable to single and multiple seating units.

In the text of this standard the term “chairs” is used to refer to chairs with electrically operated support surfaces. The term “chairs” also refers to multiple seating units.

The standard is applicable to chairs intended for domestic and non-domestic use.

This standard specifies only the safety, strength, stability and durability of the chair structure. It does not specify the fire resistance or durability properties of filling materials, upholstery fabrics or foam cushions. Also, it does not specify the electrical safety of the support surface adjustment mechanism. The requirements in this standard are applicable to chairs in the fully assembled condition, ready for use. The standard does not specify resistance to degradation of the structural materials by sunlight or chemical attack.

This standard does not cover any ancillary devices attached to, or built into, the chair structure, such as a table, refrigerator or television remote control (see Note2).

NOTE1 Chairs which are medical devices are required to conform to EC Directive 93/42/EEC (the Medical Devices Directive) [1].

NOTE2 If conformity to a standard is to be claimed for such ancillary devices, conformity assessment against the relevant standard(s) would need to be carried out separately.