Stay informed
Subscribe to our newsletter, our monthly look at food and non-food quality management.
Feb. 04, 2021
Silvion Khan
Product Safety
EN 17191: The first European standard for high chairs.
EN 17191 Children's furniture - Chairs for children - Safety requirements and test methods will be the first harmonized European standard for children's chairs. This standard is almost ready for assessment and is expected to be included in the Official Journal of the European Union under the General Product Safety Directive in early 2021. Conflicting national standards will then be withdrawn.
Scope of EN 17191
The scope has become clearer and broader compared to the French standard NF D 60 300. Examples of categories of children's chairs covered by EN 17191 for both indoor and outdoor use are:
- Chairs
- Banks
- Stools
- Beanbags
- Loungers
- Armchairs
- Folding chairs
- Swivel chairs
Children's chairs excluded from the scope are high chairs, care items such as cribs, chairs for educational institutions, rocking chairs, wheelchairs, chairs for children with special needs, and parts of chairs with functions other than seating.
Testing
EN 17191 is a comprehensive standard. This standard covers not only the highest risks such as stability, strength and durability of furniture, but also risks related to flammability, chemical hazards, choking, swallowing, entrapment and strangulation. These hazards are included to ensure that the chairs are not only functionally safe but also do not pose a danger to children of various ages.
Age range
The most practical thing about this standard is undoubtedly the new age rating. Depending on the height, width and depth, high chairs are divided into three different categories. For each category, the age classes are defined, as shown in the following table.
| Size 1 (1 to 3 years) | Size 2(4 to 7 years) | Size 3(8 to 14 years) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat height | 260 mm | 310 mm | 380 mm |
| Seat depth | 250 mm | 270 mm | 340 mm |
| Minimum seat width | 240 mm | 280 mm | 340 mm |
It is important to determine the correct age rating for your high chair because the tests can vary by category. For example, the load in testing for Size 3 chairs is heavier because they are intended for older children.Size 1 chairs are intended for toddlers. This group of children are more vulnerable to small parts and long cords, for example. Size 1 chairs are therefore subjected to more testing than Size 2 and 3 chairs.
Labeling
Specific warnings and information are required on both the product itself, the packaging and the instructions for use. In addition to the information related to traceability, the reference to the standard and the intended age indication are also mandatory.
Need support?
Do you sell children's chairs on the European market and have questions about this new standard? Précon can support you in understanding the requirements for your product. Please contact us at +31 (0)30 - 65 66 010 or info@precongroup.com. You will receive a free quote.
Related news.