There is no 'product' regulation in Europe or France that compels manufacturers and importers to provide safety glass for desk tops. However, the General Product Safety Directive (DGSP) in Europe, at a minimum, requires, in the absence of specific regulations or standards, the safety that can reasonably be expected, which largely depends on the thickness of the annealed glass concerning the span between supports. Previously, in French office furniture standards, there were non-mandatory appendices recommending safety glass for projecting glass tops. The NF Bureau label had made them mandatory. These standards have been replaced by European standards (NF EN 527) that no longer contain these appendices or demand impact tests on the tops. The new NF OEC label, which has aligned with European office furniture standards, also has no requirements in this regard. The glass issue seems to have been omitted, probably because glass doesn't satisfy the requirements for shine (too reflective).
However, there is now an NF EN for general test methods on glass doors and glass tops in furniture. The requirements will soon be included in product standards, including office furniture, during their future revisions. These requirements will be either no breakage or safe breakage, such as tempered or laminated glass.
So, you still have the choice of glass type, knowing that the DGSP (and the directive on liability for defective products, which would be invoked in case of an accident) strongly encourages you to use safe products. If you opt for tempered glass, you'll have top-level communication with your customers, and when the revised standards are published, you'll have a good head start on your competitors.
The standard NF P 91-201 specifies dimensions for furniture, especially work surfaces (section 4.2.1):
- Work surface height = 800mm (850mm maximum for larger sizes)
- Clearance height under the work surface >= 750mm
- Clearance width under the work surface >= 600mm
- Frontal access recommended
And for the shelves of storage furniture (section 4.2.6):
- Depth of shelves in tall furniture = 400mm
- Depth of shelves in low furniture = 600mm
- Shelf height = 400 to 1200mm
We recommend obtaining this standard from www.afnor.fr for further information.
- No. The NF and CTB marks apply only to certified furniture. A manufacturer cannot declare themselves as 'NF' or 'CTB,' but they can state that their furniture is 'NF' or 'CTB' certified.
- However, the NF and CTB marks are issued after verifying both the compliance of the furniture with standards and the quality organization of the manufacturer's industrial tool, which is audited according to a model ISO 9000 (incorporating the essential requirements of this standard).
Meeting room chairs should comply with the NF EN 13761 standard. This standard does not prescribe specific means (e.g., a 5-caster base) but rather performance requirements (e.g., stability...). Concerning chairs equipped with casters, it specifies in section 5.3 that an unloaded chair should not roll unintentionally. Specifically: - The rolling resistance should be greater than or equal to 15N for type H casters for carpeted floors and 12N for type W casters for hard floors - The casters should be of the same construction.
Meeting room chairs should comply with the NF EN 13761 standard. This standard does not prescribe specific means (e.g., a 5-caster base) but rather performance requirements (e.g., stability...). Concerning chairs equipped with casters, it specifies in section 5.3 that an unloaded chair should not roll unintentionally. Specifically: - The rolling resistance should be greater than or equal to 15N for type H casters for carpeted floors and 12N for type W casters for hard floors - The casters should be of the same construction.
Yes, the NF EN 1335 1/2/3 standards specify that chairs should be designed to support a maximum weight of 110 kg in use. For weights exceeding this and going up to 135 kg, the NF Office Excellence certificatié has defined a specific requirement (see section 39.SC.05 in the reference document at http://www.fcba.fr). This requirement should be specified in the tender documents during procurement.
The NF P 91-201 standard prescribes dimensions for furniture, including work surfaces (section 4.2.1): - Work surface height = 800mm (850mm maximum for large sizes) - Clear access height under the work surface >= 750mm - Clear access width under the work surface >= 600mm - Recommended front access And for the shelves in storage furniture (section 4.2.6): - Depth of shelves in wall cabinets = 400mm - Depth of shelves in base cabinets = 600mm - Shelf height = 400 to 1200mm We recommend obtaining this standard from www.afnor.fr for further information.
There is no 'product' regulation in Europe or France that obliges manufacturers and importers to provide safety glass for table surfaces. However, the General Product Safety Directive (DGSP) in Europe, in the absence of specific regulations or standards, mandates a minimum safety level that largely depends on the thickness of the glass relative to the span between supports, especially for annealed glass. In French furniture standards, there used to be non-mandatory annexes recommending safety glass for projecting glass tabletops. The NF Office Excellence certificatié turned these into mandatory rules. These standards have been replaced by European standards (NF EN 527) which no longer include these annexes or require impact testing for tabletops. The new NF Office Excellence certificatié aligned with European standards for office furniture doesn't have requirements in this regard. The issue of glass has, in fact, been somewhat overlooked, likely due to concerns about its glare. However, there is now an NF EN standard for general test methods for glass doors and tabletops in furniture. The requirements will soon be included in product standards, including office furniture, during their future revisions. These requirements will either be about breakage resistance or secure breakage, such as tempered or laminated glass. So, you still have the choice of glass type, but the DGSP (and the Product Liability Directive, which would be invoked in case of accidents) strongly encourage using safe products. Opting for tempered glass would position you as a 'top-level' provider, and when the revised standards are published, you'll have an advantage over your competitors.
The standards to be specified are listed in the NF Office Excellence certificatié reference. Concerning your tender, the standards to be specified are as follows: · NF EN 527 1-2-3 tables and desks · NF EN 1335 1-2-3 office chairs · NF EN 14073 2-3 storage furniture · NF EN 14074 movable parts of tables and storage furniture. The Public Procurement Code requires public buyers to purchase products that comply with standards. It allows you to demand evidence of compliance established by a third-party organization of the bidder. FCBA regularly intervenes at the request of local authorities to assist in drafting their CCTPs and analyzing the technical validity of received offers.
Depending on the intended use, the requirements are slightly different: · If the table is for communal use (meeting, training, dining, etc.), according to standard D 62-070, the deflection under load must be less than or equal to 1% of the length of the tabletop (e.g., 16 mm for a length of 1600 mm). · If the table is an office desk, according to standard NF EN 527-3 and prescription 32.SC.02 of the NF Office Excellence certificatié, the deflection under load must be less than or equal to 0.5% of the length of the tabletop (e.g., 8 mm for the same length of 1600 mm). These requirements do not depend on the construction method or the type of material used. Only performance in use matters.
The NF EN 527-1 standard prescribes in paragraph 3 - page 5: · having a usable surface not less than 0.96m² · offering sufficient depth to meet functional requirements · providing adequate front edge width to accommodate the upper part of the user · the minimum dimensions for rectangular tables should not be less than 1200mm x 800mm. The NF EN ISO 9241-5 standard prescribes that the optimal eye-to-screen distance in a seated position is 600mm, with a viewing angle of 30 degrees. We suggest obtaining these standards from AFNOR's bookstore at www.afnor.fr. Desks certified as NF Office Excellence compliant meet these requirements.
In fact, no standard requires the installation of an anti-tilt mechanism in office furniture. The NF D 62041 standard and the new NF EN 14703-2 standard prescribe that the furniture should not tilt when all loaded doors and drawers are opened (while the others are empty). To prevent this tilting, several technical solutions are possible, including wall mounting, placing weights inside the furniture, or a selective locking device that allows the opening of only one drawer at a time. Furniture certified as NF Office Excellence compliant meets this safety requirement.
There is no minimum or regulatory requirement, but there are standards that specify recommended qualities and thicknesses. The General Product Safety Directive, as transposed into French law, requires taking maximum precautions. If the product is NF certified, the requirements are: thermally toughened glass in all cases, with thickness according to the formats (table in the reference). Ideally, to ensure the safety reasonably expected (as per the Consumer Code), glass tabletops for an office desk or a console table should always be thermally toughened (and comply with standard NF EN 12150-1 specifying the characteristics and the mode of control of thermally toughened glass). The thickness depends on the format and especially the span sensitive to deformation under load, and this is calculated at a minimum. However, the subjective aspect must be taken into account: glass that is sufficiently thick for safety but too thin for the eye may not inspire confidence and may deter potential buyers. Therefore, it is necessary to know these details (format, span, implementation) to respond precisely about a specific product.
There is no comprehensive table comparing the requirements of these two certifications, NF-OEC and GS.
What is common: the provisions of standards EN 527 1/2/3 - EN 1023 1/2/3 - EN 1335 1/2/3 - EN 13761 - EN 14073 2/3 - EN 14074 - EN ISO 9241-5
The "plus" of NF Office Excellence Certified
> Additional technical requirements related to office chairs (e.g., durability of the free-float backrest mechanism), desks (e.g., durability of height-adjustable mechanisms)
> Additional technical requirements related to the fire behavior of office chairs and visitor chairs (cigarette ignition according to EN 1021-1 or recommendation D2/2000)
> Additional technical requirements for the durability of finishes (resistance to abrasion, scratching, staining of work surfaces or paint on cabinet panels or table legs) Additional technical requirements for seat upholstery (dynamic fatigue, resistance to foam indentation, lightfastness, color fastness, staining of coverings)
Melamine-faced particleboard (PPSM) is particleboard made of wood chips bonded together, and a layer of melamine-coated decorative paper is applied to it in the factory. This application is done under heat and pressure...
Laminated veneer panels consist of a decorative layer applied to multiple sheets of kraft paper coated with melamine resin. This application is done under heat and high pressure.
Should you choose melamine-faced particleboard or laminated veneer for office desks? Melamine-faced particleboard (PPSM) has made significant progress in recent years, thanks to the development of enhanced melamine resins. Some PPSMs, tested according to the criteria of the XP D 60-050 standard, are now used to manufacture office desk tabletops. You can even find PPSM flooring with added silica for improved abrasion resistance on the market. What's important is compliance with the XP D 60-050 standard, particularly in terms of resistance to impact, abrasion, scratching, and resistance to cleaning products (detergents, nail polish, eosine), office supplies (ballpoint pen and fountain pen ink, permanent markers), and food items (coffee, soda).
For office furniture installed in a domestic setting but intended for professional use, it is advisable to comply with the corresponding European standards: NF EN 1335/1,2,3 - NF EN 1023/1,2,3 - NF EN 527/1,2,3
Manufacturers of office furniture offer programs that meet the need for vertical storage (also referred to as the 3rd level). Some of these programs are already certified. Vertical functions must comply with the standards for office furniture, which is something to check carefully before purchasing such furniture.
Electrification of office furniture must meet two requirements: compliance in design (under the manufacturer's responsibility) and compliance in installation and equipment (under the responsibility of the installer). OEC-certified electrifiable desks are declared compliant with the essential requirements of standard C15801. The installation of electrical equipment must be performed exclusively by qualified personnel. The compliance of these equipment must be demonstrable (marking).
The characteristics of CDI (Information and Documentation Center) shelving are prescribed in a public procurement guide 'RECOMMENDATION RELATING TO SHELVES AND SHELVING,' which you can download for free from the DAJ of the MINEFI website: http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/fonds_documentaire/daj/guide/gpem/etageres/etageres.pdf This guide specifies, among other requirements, 3 levels of load performance based on usage. The resistance of work surfaces is prescribed by the standard NF EN 1729/2, which defines load and deformation performance. You should demand performance according to safety and resistance standards, rather than discriminatory means.
There are no standards prescribing the characteristics of these types of bunk beds. We recommend referring to the 'Guide for Public Purchasing of Beds for Children Under 6 Years,' which was published in February 2008 by the Market Research Group of the Directorate of Legal Affairs of the Ministry of Finance. This guide covers the sleeping arrangements for young children in institutions and preschools. You can download this guide for free from the MINEFI website: http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/directions_services/daj/guide/gpem/table.html Bunk beds certified as NF EDUCATION comply with the requirements outlined in this guide.
Currently, there aren't enough manufacturers to establish certification procedures for this type of furniture. However, there is an NF Luminaire Mark for which you can obtain a list of manufacturers from AFNOR.
Regarding the height of workbenches for disabled individuals, the NF P 91-201 standard (July 1978) prescribes: - Workbench height = 800mm - Clearance height under the workbench = minimum 750mm - Clearance depth under the workbench = minimum 600mm
The French standard NF P 91201 'CONSTRUCTIONS - HANDICAPES PHYSIQUES' prescribes the layout dimensions for buildings accommodating people with disabilities. In particular, section 3.4 specifies a minimum free passage between furniture in a straight line of 80cm. This standard is available from the AFNOR store: www.afnor.fr
From a regulatory perspective, there are no restrictions on using glass for furniture intended for people with disabilities. Therefore, there is no direct prohibition on marketing such furniture. However, indirectly, the General Product Safety Directive (DGSP) applies. This is a European directive that has been transposed into French law, requiring market operators (manufacturers, distributors, or outfitters) to ensure that their product is safe. In the event of a dispute, the market operator is immediately involved, and the best way for them to prove their good faith in terms of safety is to be able to present a test report (conducted by a third-party organization like FCBA) demonstrating the product's compliance with safety standards. Therefore, for glass products in furniture, it is highly recommended to comply with the standards (various standards exist depending on the type of furniture and its uses) and to use tempered glass rather than annealed glass. Tempered glass is stronger (4 times more resistant to bending than annealed glass) and safer (in case of breakage, it shatters into small, non-sharp pieces).
Except for the European Directive 2001/95/EC of the EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 3 December 2001 on General Product Safety, to our knowledge, there are no specific regulations defining the height of storage furniture used in kindergarten classrooms. However, the standard NF D 62050 - school storage furniture prescribes safety characteristics, especially stability when doors, drawers, and shelves are loaded. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you only select furniture for which compliance has been established through NF EDUCATION quality certification.
Folding camp beds are not explicitly allowed. However, these two documents prescribe that if the bed height (bed base) is greater than 160mm from the floor, the cot must be equipped with barriers to prevent the child from falling. Bunk beds are allowed if the height of the upper bed base is less than 600mm from the floor. The upper bunk must then have barriers. You can find low and bunk beds that meet these safety requirements on the list of NF EDUCATION certified products, available online at www.nf-mobilier-pro.com.
To our knowledge, there is nothing prohibiting children from sleeping on mattresses placed directly on the floor, except for obvious health and hygiene considerations. I invite you to consult the Public Procurement Guide published in February 2008 by the Groupement d'Etudes de Marchés of the Direction des Affaires Juridiques of the Ministry of Finance, regarding the sleeping arrangements for young children in public institutions and kindergarten schools. This recommendation can be downloaded for free from the MINEFI website: http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/directions_services/daj/guide/gpem/table.html Mattresses certified NF EDUCATION comply with the requirements of this guide.
Standard NF P 91-201 prescribes dimensions for furniture, especially work surfaces (Chapter 4.2.1): - Work surface height = 800 mm (maximum 850 mm for larger sizes) - Clear access height under the work surface >= 750 mm - Clear access width under the work surface >= 600 mm - Frontal access recommended And for shelves in storage furniture (Chapter 4.2.6): - Shelf depth for tall furniture = 400 mm - Shelf depth for base furniture = 600 mm - Shelf height = 400 to 1200 mm We recommend obtaining this standard from the website www.afnor.fr for further information.
In order not to restrict the offer by arbitrarily disqualifying certain applications, you cannot demand means that define the design of the furniture but rather requirements for results and performance. According to the new Public Procurement Code, for the purchase of school chairs and tables: - You must demand compliance with standard NF EN 1729 1-2, which prescribes safety, dimension, and mechanical resistance requirements. - You can demand compliance with material finish quality criteria as defined by the NF EDUCATION certification (see attached documents). The FCBA-CTBA can also assist you in: - drafting your CCTP to properly specify the applicable standards and regulations. - analyzing the validity of received offers, as we regularly do for many local authorities.
The NF P 91-201 standard 'Constructions - Physically Disabled' prescribes: - Clearance under the table of a minimum height of 750mm - Clearance under the table of a minimum depth of 600mm - Tabletop height of 800mm
Whiteboards installed in educational establishments must comply with the NF EN 14434 standard. This European standard prescribes safety, durability, and resistance criteria for writing surfaces and their structures. Proof of compliance should be requested from all your suppliers, whether they are manufacturers or distributors. The three major whiteboard manufacturers in the French market have their boards certified as NF EDUCATION. This certification provides the necessary proof of compliance, which is established through rigorous testing and regular factory audits. You can find their contact details on the website www.nf-mobilier-pro.com under the 'fabricants' section: http://www.nf-ameublement-pro.com/co/fabricants_co/fab_education_co.html
There is no obligation to have school furniture certified with NF EDUCATION to sell in France. However, the various revisions of the public procurement code do require that products purchased for any public procurement must comply with French standards or their equivalents. NF EDUCATION certification serves as a permanent third-party proof of compliance with standards and safety regulations. It is now recognized by almost all local authorities and is specified as a criterion in their tender documents.
To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no regulation prescribing a specific 'food-grade' treatment for the surfaces of dining tables. However, it is advisable to check if there is no migration of heavy metals on the surface of these tables when they come into contact with food. This test is now systematically performed according to the NF EN 71-3 standard for all dining tables certified as NF COLLECTIVITE.
Depending on usage, the requirements are slightly different: · If your table is for public use (meetings, training, dining, etc.), according to standard D 62-070, deflection under load must be less than or equal to 1% of the tabletop length (which is 16mm for a length of 1600mm, for example). · If your table is a desk, according to standard NF EN 527-3 and prescription 32.SC.02 for the NF Bureau Safety Comfort mark, deflection under load must be less than or equal to 0.5% of the tabletop length (which is 8mm for the same 1600mm length). These requirements don't depend on construction methods or materials used. Only performance matters.
There is no regulatory or normative requirement to perforate bed bases. It's simply a matter of common sense: - An adult can sweat and expel several liters of water during sleep (up to 10 liters depending on individuals and weather conditions). - Much of this moisture is absorbed by the mattress, which should be able to expel it. - Perforating particleboard bed bases is a minimal precaution, and it's essential if the board is melamine-coated, as otherwise, mattress mold can develop rapidly. - We recommend ventilation with a minimum total surface area of 4 dm² for a single bed. - Ideally, a bed base with fixed or flexible slats should be used for proper mattress ventilation.
Decree 95-949 dated 08/25/95 prescribes the obligation of compliance with safety rules defined by the current standards: NF EN 747 1-2 (domestic bunk beds) and NF EN 13453 1-2 (institutional bunk beds). In a letter dated 05/04/96, the DGCCRF (Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control) excluded from the scope of Decree 95-949 the bunk beds used in kindergarten dormitories where the upper bed base is less than 600mm from the floor. However, it is specified that these bunk beds must comply with safety rules. All bunk beds certified as NF EDUCATION meet these safety criteria, defined by the specific prescription 27.NFE.03 in the reference document (downloadable from the www.ctba.fr website under the certification section). The former recommendation from GPEM/AB of the Ministry of National Education, which advised against using this type of bunk beds in kindergarten dormitories, is no longer listed in the current guides and recommendations (list of downloadable guides on the public procurement portal http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/daj/guide/gpem/table.html).
There are no standards specifying specific dimensions for this furniture. However, the NF P 91-201 standard 'constructions - physically disabled individuals' can provide you with many details on space requirements and passages. You can obtain this standard from AFNOR's store: www.afnor.fr
No, each European standard is developed by a working group consisting of experts sent by standardization associations from various European Union countries. The proposed project is therefore the result of a consensus among the experts from these different countries. Unfortunately, it's often the lowest common denominator that prevails. The draft standard is then approved through a European public consultation. Once published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), the European standard automatically replaces all corresponding national standards. So, there is only one harmonized standard in all EU countries.
Compliance with the following standards must be proven through test reports or certificates, as per the following requirements: - Dimensions compliant with the NF EN 1334 standard - Safety compliant with the NF EN 1725 standard - Resistance and durability according to the NF EN 1957 standard, in accordance with section 7.2 and 9: height loss less than or equal to 15 mm and firmness loss less than or equal to 18% - Fire behavior compliant with the NF EN 597 parts I and II standards or recommendation GPEM/CP D1 bis /89
For a long time, melamine technology has been used for making furniture bodies (storage cabinets, kitchen furniture, etc.). Melamine panels (as explained in the previous question) have made significant progress in recent years. Performance in use has been enhanced through the development of reinforced melamine resins. Today, some melamine panels, tested according to the criteria of the NF D62052 standard, are used for making school table surfaces. There are even PPSM floor coverings on the market, with added silica for increased abrasion resistance. What's important is compliance with the requirements of the XPD 60050 standard, especially resistance to impact, abrasion, scratching, and resistance to cleaning, office, and food products.
A PPSM is a Melamine-Coated Particleboard Panel. It's a panel made of agglomerated wood particles to which a decorative paper coated with melamine resin is applied in the factory, using heat and pressure. These panels are then cut and shaped into furniture or table formats by furniture manufacturers. The edges are subsequently protected with a PVC or ABS edge banding, or an anti-shock border, and so on...
Yes. Decree No. 95-949 dated 25/08/95 also applies to bunk beds in kindergarten dormitories. However, a letter dated 05/04/96 from the DGCCRF (General Directorate of Competition and Fraud Control) specifies that beds with the upper bed base less than 600 mm from the floor do not meet the definition of bunk beds under the decree and are therefore not covered by the decree. However, this letter emphasizes the general safety obligation as per the terms of Article L221-1 of the Consumer Code. This safety obligation must be validated by a conformity certificate issued by FCBA. Bunk beds for kindergarten dormitories certified as NF EDUCATION are, of course, compliant with these safety requirements. Decree No. 95-949 stipulates the prohibition since 28/08/96 of "manufacturing, importing, making available for free or for a fee, holding for sale, selling, or distributing, for free, bunk beds used in domestic or institutional places that do not comply with the provisions of this decree." Therefore, there is an obligation to bring all existing beds in kindergartens into compliance, without waiting for an inspection by the Safety Commission or the DGCCRF, or for an accident to occur. This is the responsibility of the Head of the institution and the supervisory authority.
To our knowledge, there is no prohibition against having children sleep on mattresses placed directly on the floor, except for obvious concerns about cleanliness and hygiene. We invite you to consult the 'Guide de l'Achat Public' (Guide to Public Procurement) published in February 2008 by the Groupement d'Études de Marchés of the Direction des Affaires Juridiques of the Ministry of Finance, regarding the sleeping arrangements for young children in communal settings and kindergarten. This recommendation can be downloaded for free from the MINEFI website: http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/directions_services/daj/guide/gpem/table.html NF EDUCATION-certified cots comply with the requirements of this guide.
There is no standard prescribing the characteristics of this type of bunk bed. We encourage you to consult the 'Guide de l'Achat Public' for cots for children under 6 years of age, which was published in February 2008 by the Groupement d'Études de Marchés of the Direction des Affaires Juridiques of the Ministry of Finance. This guide pertains to the sleeping arrangements for young children in communal settings and kindergartens. This guide is available for free download from the MINEFI website: http://www.minefi.gouv.fr/directions_services/daj/guide/gpem/table.html NF EDUCATION-certified cots comply with the requirements of this guide.
Chalkboards installed in educational institutions must comply with the NF EN 14434 standard. This European standard prescribes safety, durability, and resistance criteria for writing surfaces and their structure. Proof of compliance must be requested from all your suppliers, whether they are manufacturers or distributors. The three main chalkboard manufacturers in the French market have their chalkboards certified NF EDUCATION. This provides the proof of compliance you need, which is established through rigorous testing and regular factory audits. You can find their contact information on the website www.nf-mobilier-pro.com under the 'fabricants' section here.
As of now, there is no regulation, to our knowledge, that prescribes a specific 'food-safe' treatment for the coatings of dining tables. However, it seems prudent to check if there is no migration of heavy metals on the table surfaces in contact with food. This test is now systematically conducted according to the NF EN 71-3 standard for all communal tables certified NF COLLECTIVITE.
The NF P 91-201 standard 'Constructions - Physically Handicapped' prescribes:
- A clearance under the table with a minimum height of 750mm
- A clearance under the table with a minimum depth of 600mm
- A table surface height of 800mm
There is no regulatory or normative obligation to perforate bed bases. This is simply common sense: - An adult perspires and can release several liters of moisture during a night's sleep (up to 10 liters depending on the individual and climate conditions). - A significant portion of this moisture is absorbed by the mattress, which should be able to release it. - Perforating particle board bed bases is a minimal and necessary precaution, especially if the board is melamine-coated, as failing to do so could result in mattresses becoming moldy. - We recommend ventilation with a total minimum surface area of 4 dm² for a single bed. - The ideal solution is to use fixed or flexible slatted bed bases for good mattress ventilation.
- The technology of wood-based panels (PPSM) has made significant progress in recent years. Performance for various uses has improved through the development of reinforced melamine resins. - Today, some wood-based panels (PPSM), tested according to the criteria of the NF D62052 standard, are used to make school table surfaces. You can even find floor coverings made of PPSM with added silica for superior abrasion resistance. - What's important is compliance with the requirements of the XPD 60050 standard, particularly resistance to impact, abrasion, scratching, and resistance to cleaning, office, and food products.
Regarding the height of work surfaces for disabled individuals: The NF P 91-201 standard (July 1978) prescribes the following: - Work surface height = 800mm - Clear height under the work surface = minimum 750mm - Clear depth under the work surface = minimum 600mm
The French standard NF P 91201 'CONSTRUCTIONS - PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED' prescribes building layout dimensions for accommodating disabled individuals. In particular, section 3.4 specifies a free passage between furniture in a straight line of a minimum of 80cm. This standard is available through the AFNOR store: www.afnor.fr
Folding camp beds are not explicitly allowed, but these two documents prescribe that if the sleeping surface (bed base) is higher than 160mm from the ground, the cot must be equipped with barriers to prevent the child from falling. Bunk beds are allowed if the height of the upper bed base is less than 600mm from the ground. The upper bunk must then be equipped with barriers. You can find low cots and bunk beds that meet these safety requirements on the list of NF EDUCATION-certified products, available online at www.nf-mobilier-pro.com.
Other than the European Directive 2001/95/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of December 3, 2001, on General Product Safety, to our knowledge, there is no specific regulation defining the height of storage furniture used in preschool classrooms. However, the NF D 62050 standard for school storage furniture prescribes safety characteristics, especially stability when doors, loaded drawers, and shelves are open. It is highly recommended that you only select furniture whose compliance has been established through an NF EDUCATION quality certificate.
From a regulatory perspective, there is no specific regulatory restriction on the use of glass material for furniture intended for disabled individuals, and there is no direct obligation preventing you from marketing such furniture. However, indirectly, the General Product Safety Directive (DGSP) applies. This is a European directive that has been transcribed into French law and requires that the market operator (manufacturer, distributor, or contractor) must ensure that their product is safe. In the event of a dispute, the market operator is immediately involved, and the best way for them to prove their good faith in terms of safety is to be able to provide a test report (conducted by a third-party organization like FCBA) demonstrating the product's compliance with safety standards. Therefore, for glass products in furniture, it is highly recommended to conform to standards (there are different standards depending on the type of furniture and their use), and it is strongly advised to use tempered glass rather than annealed glass. Tempered glass is stronger (four times more resistant to bending than annealed glass) and safer (as it shatters into small non-cutting pieces in case of breakage).
In order not to restrict the offer by arbitrarily disqualifying certain applications, you cannot specify the means defining the design of furniture, but you can specify requirements for results and performance. According to the new Public Procurement Code, for the purchase of school chairs and tables: - You must require compliance with the NF EN 1729 1-2 standard, which prescribes safety, dimension, and mechanical resistance requirements. - You can require compliance with quality criteria for material finishes as defined by NF EDUCATION certification (see attached documents). FCBA-CTBA can also assist you in: - Writing your CCTP to correctly prescribe the applicable standards and regulations. - Analyzing the validity of received offers, as we already do for many local authorities.
In response to your question, I can clarify that the NF EN 716 1-2 standards concern 'Fixed and folding cradles for domestic use for children.' These approved standards were revised in 2008. A revision project was published by AFNOR in July 2011 but is not yet applicable. These standards do not apply to beds for non-domestic use, such as in daycares. There is no specific standard for beds used in daycares. To establish compliance with the safety requirements prescribed by Decree No. 91-1292 of December 20, 1991, concerning the prevention of risks resulting from the use of childcare articles, FCBA conducts a type examination based on the decree. In the case of a baby bed, the FCBA laboratory qualifies the product according to the NF EN 716-1 and 2 standard, 'Fixed and folding cradles for domestic use for children - Safety requirements - Test methods,' and evaluates it more rigorously to account for foreseeable situations in daycares. All cribs certified 'NF CRECHES' have been validated in this way. Regarding Decree No. 91-1292, it specifies: Article 1: It is prohibited to manufacture, import, hold for sale, offer for sale, or distribute for free childcare articles that do not comply with the provisions of this decree. Article 2: For the purposes of this decree, childcare article means any product intended to provide or facilitate seating, toileting, sleeping, transport, movement, and physical protection for children under the age of four. Thus, there is no retroactive effect of this decree for articles (or beds) predating its publication and the latest notice of 23/04/2010 regarding the application of Decree No. 91-1292. However, you should check that you have the compliance certificates for the beds in use or request copies from the supplier at the time. If you cannot obtain these certificates, it would be advisable (especially in the event of legal proceedings following the mentioned accident): - To establish compliance through testing by an accredited laboratory, e.g., FCBA, on a bed in use - To replace all disputed beds.
Regarding the fire regulation for the various foam furniture items you market: - For isolated seats and furniture, there is no mandatory regulation. However, to comply with the GPEM D2/2000 public procurement recommendation, compliance with NF EN 1021 1+2 standards must be proven through the corresponding fire certificates. A test report on the foam or the covering alone is not sufficient because it's the combination of foam and covering that must be validated. - For attached or multi-seat seats or those presenting a risk due to the volume of flammable material, you need a compliance certificate with Article AM 18 of the Fire Safety and Panic Risk Regulation in Public Establishments.
There is a basic fire regulation in France for all public establishments (ERP). This regulation can be more or less severe depending on the establishment. Indeed, the regulation for High-Rise Buildings (IGH) is stricter. For an office chair that is not fixed to the floor and not hookable, there is no specific regulation, only a recommendation based on EN 1021-1&2 standards. However, due to the intended use in an IGH, you must comply with Article GH61 of the regulation, which requires that the combined potential calorific value of all products should not exceed 400 MJ/m². To do this, you need to provide the Safety Commission with the calorific potential (PCS) of your office chairs. This can be done either through destructive testing according to EN 1716 standards or by calculation. To determine the calorific potential of your office chairs, you need to know the calorific potential of each component (foam, fabric, plastic, steel, wheels, glue, etc.). If you use the calculation method using the table, you need to know the mass of each component and then multiply this mass by the value indicated in the table (MJ/kg). Once all the calorific potentials are known, you just need to add up the values found, and you'll know the calorific potential of the entire office chair. Ask your component suppliers for test reports according to EN 1716 standards. If you choose the method following EN 1716 standards, you should budget around €1400 (excluding taxes) for testing one chair.
Indeed, there are specific regulations for store furniture, especially for suspension hooks.
The concept of E.R.P. is clearly defined in Article R. 123-2 of the Building and Housing Code: 'Public establishments receiving people are all buildings, premises, and spaces where individuals are admitted, either freely or for a fee or any other contribution, or where open meetings are held, whether open to all or by invitation, paid or unpaid. All individuals admitted to the establishment for any reason are considered as part of the public. Article AM18 of the 'Fire Safety and Panic Risk Regulation in Public Establishments' defines the requirements for creating rows, including the spacing that should allow for the passage of a 350mm mannequin between rows, as well as rows of a maximum of 32 seats or 16 seats along a wall.
Regarding your request, display furniture is considered as large furniture and is subject to AM 15 and 16. Therefore, you do need to prove that the material is classified as M3. If it's a wood material, you can use conventional wood classifications as per the decision of 21/11/2002 attached, or you can prove compliance by testing the products according to the classification.
In response to your request, I can indicate the standards to prescribe for children's beds: * Cribs for children under 4 years old = NF EN 716 1/2 (2008) * Low cots for children over 4 years old (e.g., in nursery schools) = NF S 54045 (2003) * Beds with elevated or bunk platforms where the base is less than 600mm from the floor (e.g., in nursery schools) = no specific standard, but the NF EDUCATION technical reference document applies.
In response to your request, I can specify the standards and regulations related to the attachment of seats in rows: 1. Fire Safety and Panic Risk Regulation in Public Establishments. Article AM 18 prescribes: - Attachment to the floor or in rows for rooms with more than 200 seats on the ground floor, or 100 seats in basements or upper floors. - The number of seats in a row cannot exceed 16 for double-access rows or 8 for single-access rows (against a wall). - The distance between two rows should allow for the passage of a template (350mm) at all times, usually maintained with ground bars to keep the distance between rows. - Fire behavior is assessed according to the "mass loss" test (smoke release). There is no longer a requirement for M classification for materials, except for the structure, which must be at least M3. - This regulation applies as soon as the seats are linked in rows, even if the number of seats is lower. 2. EN 14703 standard (seats linked in rows) prescribes extravagant and inappropriate requirements. This standard is not applied in France. - As a result, there is no requirement for the performance of seat linking systems' resistance. - Some seats are simply connected with a gravity clamp, while others use a more rigid fastening system.
In response to your request for information, I can confirm that the NF MOBILIER PROFESSIONNEL mark has a dedicated application for furniture used in childcare facilities. You can find all the relevant information on the website www.nf-mobilier-pro.com and download the 'test' document specific to childcare furniture.
In response to your question, I would like to clarify that there is no maximum seat height for a workshop chair. However, safety rules should be followed: - Chair stability - Avoid using wheels for chairs with a height greater than 650mm You can find this information in the NF TECHNICAL certification reference document available on the website www.fcba.fr, and additional information on the website www.nf-mobilier-pro.com.
In response to your request for information regarding the specifications for community chairs and tables, here are some details: Chairs: They will be stackable or hangable, made of a monobloc polypropylene shell that is mass-tinted for indoor or outdoor use, in the context of catering or event meetings in establishments classified as 3rd to 5th categories. A fire rating of M3 is sufficient. If you plan to use them in rows, you should provide a fastening system and spacing bars between rows according to Article AM18 of the Fire Safety and Panic Risk Regulation in Public Establishments, in compliance with NF EN 15373 Level 2 (standard) or 3 (severe). While certification with NF COMMUNITY is optional, it can serve as a mode of proof but is not mandatory. Tables: Tables with a pine top measuring 2.20x800 with folding legs, intended for similar purposes as the chairs. No specific fire rating is prescribed. Compliance with NF EN 15372 Level 2 (standard) or 3 (severe) is recommended. Certification with NF COMMUNITY is optional but not mandatory. These standards are available on the website www.afnor.fr in the online store. For additional information, please visit www.nf-mobilier-pro.com.
Indeed, FCBA can offer you a type of compliance analysis to be performed on a sample, in line with safety and resistance requirements of the NF EN 1729-2 standard.
In response to your request for information on choosing work chairs suitable for your 8-hour-a-day seated work at your computer workstation, we recommend selecting a chair:
- with adjustable seat height
- with a synchronous seat-back mechanism
- with lumbar support adjustment
- if possible, with adjustable armrests
- optionally with an adjustable headrest
- And of course, NF Office Excellence Certified, the new certification for office chairs.
- ISO 14001 certification is a certification of the company's environmental management system. This certification validates the company's environmental code of conduct, but not the ecological performance of the products.
- NF ENVIRONNEMENT certification is a product certification. This certification validates the ecological compliance of the products manufactured and placed on the market. The 20 criteria of the NF ENVIRONMENT Ameublement standard validate both the ecological compliance of certified products and the environmental management system's compliance regarding the product.
During this test, the partition is considered stable if we observe no tilting, breaking, or damage:
- either by reaching a pushing force of 200N
- or by achieving a horizontal displacement at the point of pushing of 200mm (it is not necessary to continue the push).
In ergonomics, it depends on the activity to define the dimensions of the objects you use.
If you have office work, your furniture should comply with the standards:
- office chair NF EN 1335-1
- desk table NF EN 527-1
And if your workstation is equipped with a computer screen:
- workstation layout NF EN ISO 9241-5
In summary:
- Desk surface should conform to standard NF EN 527-1 (lower range for a desk at a fixed height is 740 +/- 20mm)
- Work chair = seat height should be adjustable from 400 to 480mm / the height of the lumbar support point should be adjustable from 170 to 220mm above the seat surface.
If you're working at a computer workstation (Visual Display Unit Work), these provisions are mandatory and regulated by the European Directive 90/270/EEC of 05/29/1990 and Decree 91.451 of 05/14/1991.
On their website, you can consult the document from INRS on office layout.
The NF ENVIRONMENT Ameublement standard prescribes the use of panels with low formaldehyde emissions, with a level less than half of the European level E1, which is 4 mg/100g.
This logo was developed by a specific and independent US organization (from whom?) with the aim of facilitating cardboard recycling. These logos are not used and recognized in Europe, but I don't see how their use would be prohibited.
Lastly, the Corrugated Packaging Council (CPC) has developed a 'recyclable' symbol for use on corrugated packaging that can be recycled. The symbol may be used without specific permission on all corrugated products that are readily recyclable. If a corrugated product is coated with a material that is not repulpable (not convertible to pulp), then it is not readily recyclable. A wax or asphalt coating, for example, prevents a corrugated product from being readily recyclable. The symbol is merely a general statement that the corrugated product on which it appears can be recycled. It is not meant to imply that any content was already recycled or a product of recycling. The CPC is a non-profit organization that develops and coordinates industry-wide programs to address corrugated packaging issues. It is sponsored by the Association of Independent Corrugated Converters (AICC), and the Fibre Box Association (FBA).
We recommend selecting a chair with adjustable seat height, a synchronous seat-back mechanism, lumbar support adjustment, and, if possible, adjustable armrests, and optionally, an adjustable headrest.
These standards are as follows:
> NF EN 1335 1-2-3: Office chairs
> NF EN 13761: Visitor chairs
> NF EN 1021 1: Flammability of upholstered seats - resistance to cigarette
> XP D 61040-4: Characteristics of upholstered seat fillings (foams, fabrics, etc.)
> NF EN 527 1-2-3: Office tables
> NF EN 14073 2-3: Storage furniture
> NF EN 14074: Mobile parts of office furniture (drawers, doors, curtains, casters, etc.)
> NF EN 1023 1-2-3: Office partitions
> NF EN ISO 9241-5: Ergonomic requirements for office work with visual display terminals
> XP D 60050: Characteristics of finishing test methods
These standards also apply to custom-made furniture.
Meeting room chairs must comply with standard NF EN 13761.
This standard does not prescribe specific means (e.g., 5-caster base) but rather performance requirements (stability, etc.). Regarding chairs equipped with casters, it specifies that an unloaded chair must not unintentionally roll. In particular:
> Rolling resistance must be greater than or equal to 15N for H-type casters for carpeted floors and 12N for W-type casters for hard floors.
> The casters must be of identical construction.
The use of casters for a chair with a seat height greater than 560 mm is discouraged by INRS due to the lack of stability.
In accordance with the Fire Safety and Panic Risks Regulation in Establishments Open to the Public dated June 25, 1980, and the decree of July 5, 2007, concerning L-type establishments, Article L1 states:
> For auditoriums, conference rooms, meeting rooms, and multimedia rooms, seat fixation (in rows or on the floor) is mandatory in rooms with over 200 people or 100 people in the basement.
> For screening rooms, theaters, cabarets, and multipurpose rooms with a predominant sports aspect, seat fixation (in rows or on the floor) is mandatory in rooms with over 50 people or 20 people in the basement.
Articles L3 - L28 - L29 specify the access conditions between rows.
The standards to be specified are indicated in the technical specifications of the NF OEC brand. Regarding your tender, the standards to be specified are as follows:
> NF EN 527 1-2-3: Office worktables
> NF EN 1335 1-2-3: Work chairs
> NF EN 14073 2-3: Storage furniture
> NF EN 14074: Mobile parts of tables and storage furniture
The Public Procurement Code requires the public purchaser to buy products that comply with standards. It allows you to demand proof of compliance established by a third-party accredited organization. FCBA regularly intervenes at the request of local authorities to help them draft their CCTPs and analyze the technical validity of received offers.
We recommend consulting:
> NF X 35-102 standard: Ergonomic design of office workspaces (AFNOR Website)
> Actineo's website for the observatory of the quality of life in the workplace
In response to your inquiry regarding applicable standards for seats and tables for your military restaurant, the applicable standards are as follows:
- NF EN 15372 - communal tables
- NF EN 15373 - communal seats
- NF EN 1023 1-2-3 - partitions and screens
- NF EN 1021 1-2 - fire behavior of upholstered furniture / cigarette and match ignition
- XP D 61040
This certification only concerns the quality of manufacturing particle boards, which is already a sign of quality from the manufacturer. However, it is by no means sufficient to prove that these desks also comply with the safety, dimensional, and strength standards of NF EN 527 1-2-3.
Indeed, regarding the standards prescribed for discharge tables or meeting tables, we can establish equivalence between the standards: NF EN 527 2/3 - office tables and NF EN 15372 level 2 - communal tables. The safety, stability, and strength criteria are significantly equivalent.
Yes, the NF EN 1335 1/2/3 standards stipulate that chairs must be designed to support a maximum weight of 110 kg in use. Beyond this, and for weights up to 135 kg, the NF Office Excellence Certified Mark has defined specific requirements. These requirements should be specified in the specifications during tenders.
The best way is to check the 'FIND' section where certified products are listed. In stores, each certified product has a sticker with the 'NF Environment Ameublement' label logo.
The 'NF Environment Ameublement' label belongs to Afnor, but it is the FCBA Technological Institute that awards the label to manufacturers after verifying that the products comply with the requirements and that the production process is also in compliance.
Furniture bearing the 'NF Environment Ameublement' label has successfully met all the requirements of the reference. It is therefore durable, sturdy, environmentally friendly, and the company that produced it is also environmentally responsible. The commercial warranty of the product is defined by the manufacturer of the furniture.
A standard is a text developed consensually by various interested parties. Once a standard exists, compliance with it is not mandatory. It is merely a reference.
A label comprises a set of requirements that products must meet. The label is often written by those who label their own products.
A certification mark, such as 'NF Office Excellence Certified,' is developed by those seeking certification, as well as by third-party organizations. The standard does not belong to those seeking to be certified.
More expensive compared to what? 'NF Environment Ameublement' certified furniture is already of high quality because it is designed to be durable and robust. Therefore, the price should be compared among furniture of the same quality level. The certification process is costly for manufacturers, but they have the discretion to pass on this cost to customers or not. So, the answer is, NO, 'NF Environment Ameublement' is not necessarily more expensive than other furniture of equivalent quality that is not certified.
'NF Environment' is a cross-sectoral label that applies to all types of products. However, the specific requirements differ between an 'NF Environment' trash bag and 'NF Environment Ameublement' furniture. The cross-sectoral label is adapted for specific product applications. Therefore, the 'NF Environment' label in the furniture sector is called 'NF Environment Ameublement'.
There are different types of eco-friendly labels. Some are self-declarations, and others are labels awarded by third parties. When a furniture manufacturer seeks the 'NF Environment Ameublement' label, they must subject their products to testing and open their factory doors to auditors. If all the requirements are met, FCBA will grant the 'NF Environment' certification. It is a third-party certification. For more information, you can refer to our section on labels, logos, and how to navigate them.
Indeed, concerning the standards prescribed for discharge tables or meeting tables, we can establish equivalence between the standards: NF EN 527 2/3 - office tables NF EN 15372 level 2 - communal tables. The safety, stability, and strength criteria are significantly equivalent.
The height is defined by standard NF EN 527-1, which distinguishes three cases:
> Fixed height = 720mm +/- 15 mm
> Adjustable or height-adjustable = adjustment range from 680 to 760 mm
> Sit/stand height = adjustment range from 710 to 1200 mm
These requirements are also included in the technical requirements of the NF-OEC mark.
In accordance with the fire safety regulations and panic risk regulations for establishments accommodating the public dated 25/06/1980 and the decree of 05/07/2007 concerning type L establishments, article L1 indicates the regulatory requirements as follows: for auditoriums, conference rooms, meeting rooms, and multimedia rooms = mandatory anchoring of seats (in rows or to the floor) for rooms with more than 200 people or 100 people in the basement for projection rooms, theaters, cabarets, and multipurpose rooms with a sports emphasis = anchoring of seats (in rows or to the floor) for rooms with more than 50 people or 20 people in the basement. Articles L3 - L28 - L29 should be read for access conditions between rows.
The use of casters for a chair with a seat height exceeding 560 mm is not recommended by INRS due to the lack of stability.
We recommend consulting: - standard NF.X.35102: Ergonomic design of office workspaces on www.boutique.afnor.fr/boutique.asp - the website www.actineo.fr: observatory for quality of life in the office
This certification only concerns furniture made from CTBS-certified particle boards, which is already a sign of quality from the manufacturer. However, it is by no means sufficient to prove that these desks also comply with the safety, dimensional, and strength standards of NF EN 527 1-2-3.
This is a subject with many standards currently in progress or under revision. Standard N 35-102 on the layout of office premises is currently being revised. There are also NF and International standards: concerning office furniture, there is a national standard that addresses the dimensional issues of chairs and desks. A more detailed European standard is also in progress. It will take into account a large number of dimensional, postural, functional, and safety parameters that other standards do not address. Finally, a series of standards for setting up workstations with computers is also in progress.
- No. Each European standard is developed by a working group composed of experts sent by the standardization associations of the various European Union countries. The proposed project is therefore the result of a consensus of experts from these different countries. Unfortunately, it's often the lowest common denominator that prevails.
- The draft standard is then approved during a European public inquiry; everyone can give their opinion, which will be taken into account by the standardization committee of each country for its national response to the CEN (European Committee for Standardization).
- Once published by the CEN, the European standard obligatorily replaces all corresponding national standards. Therefore, there is only one harmonized standard in all EU countries.
There is much discussion and confusion on this topic. We hear about the 'CTB literie label,' the 'FCBA standard,' 'CTB regulations,' and more, but we rarely hear about CTB Literie certification. Here are some clarifications on the subject.
Regulations are created by administrative authorities (the state, senate, municipalities, etc.). They result from a bill or a regulation. Their application is mandatory.
To be CTB literie certified, a mattress must first comply with product regulations (as it's a prerequisite).
Standards are reference documents approved by recognized standardization bodies like AFNOR. They are not mandatory, but applying them demonstrates a recognized commitment to quality. This is why certification is based on a list of standards, either in terms of means (test protocol = testing method) or results (level of requirement).
A CTB literie-certified bed base has been qualified according to standards (or protocols) listed in the technical reference.
Certification is a process by which a third party, the certification body, provides a written assurance that an organizational system, process, person, product, or service complies with specified requirements in a standard or reference document. Certification is a voluntary act that can give companies a competitive advantage. It's a tool for competitiveness that establishes trust in their relationships with customers. It's awarded by independent certification bodies, certified companies, and public authorities. Notably, there are certifications for industrial products (e.g., CTB literie, NF Ameublement), management system certifications (quality: ISO 9001, environmental: ISO 14001), service certifications, etc.
The CTB LITERIE industrial product certification is a precise process regulated by law and the Consumer Code. Every year, CTB literie-certified companies are audited by FCBA, which, in turn, is audited by COFRAC (French accreditation committee) according to ISO 17065. It's the highest technical endorsement that can be given to a product. To date, in domestic furniture, there are the following product certifications: CTB LITERIE, NF AMEUBLEMENT, NF ENVIRONNEMENT AMEUBLEMENT, ECOLABEL EUROPEEN, and GS.
Labels guarantee a level of quality according to a specific set of specifications. The technical endorsement is lower because a label can come from a public or private organization (and it's essential to pay attention to the credibility and reliability of that organization and what its members are really committed to). These practices aren't regulated by legal provisions, but they're legitimate as long as they don't create confusion with genuine certification in the public's perception. Therefore, a label is less regulated than certification.
CTB literie is not a label.
The subject is complex because the subjective aspect is significant, which is why it's recommended to try and seek advice from sleep specialists before making a purchase.
There are two types of comfort for a mattress:
Other parameters come into play, such as:
All these factors affect pressure distribution and blood circulation. Any discomfort, regardless of the type, affects sleep quality.
In the future, one of the objectives of CTB LITERIE certification could be to define these comfort criteria.
There's a widespread notion that, for most of us, firmness equals density. This is incorrect.
Density of foam corresponds to the amount of material per cubic meter (e.g., 35kg/m3). The denser the foam, the thicker its cell walls. A foam with a density of 60kg/m3 will offer more durability over time than one with 30kg/m3. However, you should be cautious when comparing foams with similar densities; a 40kg/m3 foam can sometimes have better durability than a 45kg/m3 foam (which is why tested foams are essential).
The notion of firmness: a foam (regardless of density) can be soft or firm. In this case, support is discussed, expressed in kilopascals (e.g., 2.5 kPa for a soft foam and 3.5 kPa for a firm foam).
Higher-quality foams are generally found in CTB literie-certified mattresses, not because we require foams with a minimum density, but because the natural filtering process occurs: we test foams and mattresses for durability.
A recommendation from December 21, 1997, published in the Official Journal, clarifies the designations used in mattresses, especially the use of the term 'latex.' Here are some definitions and designations to remember:
Natural Latex: comes from the milk of the hevea rubber tree.
Synthetic Latex: is a foam obtained through the polymerization of petroleum derivatives.
Latex Foam: broadly refers to foam obtained through the coagulation and vulcanization of an emulsion of synthetic latex and/or natural latex.
'All-Latex' or '100% Latex Mattress': a mattress with a core composed entirely of latex, with a minimum thickness of 10 cm.
'Latex of Natural Origin': latex composed of at least 85% natural latex. For example, a 100% natural latex mattress has a latex core, over 10 cm thick, that is composed of a minimum of 85% natural latex 'Latex Mattress': a mattress with a core that, when composed of two or more different layered materials, meets the following two criteria: