The American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) approved BIFMA’s new safety and performance standard for large
occupant public and lounge seating – ANSI/BIFMA X5.41-2021 – on June 2, 2021.
Public and lounge seating is used in
indoor public places – e.g., waiting rooms, reception areas and transit lounges.
The definition includes single seat units and multiple seating positions within
one unit or ganged seating units. They are generally not adjustable.
ANSI/BIFMA X5.41 covers specific
tests, laboratory equipment, test conditions and the recommended requirements
for evaluating the performance, durability, and structural adequacy of the
seating units.
The update to the standard follows
consultation between BIFMA’s engineering department and stakeholders.
Between 2011 and 2014, the National
Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) found that a greater than 99th
percentile person weighed between 400 lb and 600 lb. Public and lounge seating
must be able to accommodate these larger occupants.
ANSI/BIFMA X5.41-2021 therefore uses
these two basis weights for its performance levels:
- 400 lb user – ANSI/BIFMA X5.41-2021(400 lb) with minimum seat width of
22 inches - 600 lb user – ANSI/BIFMA X5.41-2021 (600 lb) with minimum seat width of
26 inches
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The new standard is consistent with
the related standard – ANSI/BIFMA X5.4-2020 (Public and Lounge Seating). It cites
many of the same methodologies with modifications to loads and forces and,
unlike other BIFMA standards, it designates specific design requirements.
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Large Occupant Public and Lounge Seating: ANSI/BIFMA X5.41-2021 SafeGuardS.
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further information contact:
Allen
Moldovan
Technical
Specialist – Hardlines
Tel:
+1 973 575 5252
Email:
crs.media@sgs.com
Website:
www.sgs.com/hardlines
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