Fire Protection Requirements for Office Chairs

The fire protection requirements for office chairs mainly include filler flame retardancy, fire rating classification, flame retardancy testing, battery management for electric chairs, and other related requirements, as detailed below:

Filler Flame Retardancy Standards: According to GB8624-2023, 'Classification of Burning Behavior of Building Materials and Products,' implemented in 2024, the filler in office chairs must meet the B1 flame retardancy standard. Specifically, when the chair comes into contact with an open flame, it must self-extinguish within 30 seconds, and the length of burning must not exceed 20 centimeters. This standard significantly reduces fire risks by limiting burning time and spread.

Fire Rating Classification: National standards classify office chairs and desks into three categories:

• Non-flame-retardant: Made from easily flammable materials such as plastics, cotton, and linen fabrics, these do not meet fire rating standards and are prohibited in public places.
• B1 Fire-resistant: These have good burning performance but burn relatively quickly, suitable for public places, and must pass fire safety inspections.
• B0 Fire-resistant: These have excellent burning performance, with materials that are difficult to ignite and burn slowly, representing a higher safety level. Public places must use B1 or higher fire-rated products.

Domestic Flame Retardancy Testing Standards: Flame retardancy testing for office chairs should refer to two upholstered furniture standards:

• GB 17927.1-2011: Tests for ignition by smoldering cigarettes.
• GB 17927.2-2011: Simulates ignition by match flames. Testing should be conducted according to the requirements of QB/T 2280-2016, 'Office Furniture - Office Chairs,' to ensure products have resistance to ignition in actual use.

Battery Requirements for Electric Chairs: Office chairs with electric functions must comply with battery safety standards, with a battery life not exceeding 24 months. Batteries that exceed their useful life may increase the risk of short circuits or overheating due to aging and should be replaced promptly to ensure safety.

Other Requirements:

• Alcohol Usage Restrictions: When using 75% concentration alcohol to wipe chairs, the flash point of the residual liquid is only 13℃, equivalent to storing flammable hazardous materials in the office. Avoid using large amounts or ensure complete evaporation.
• Enterprise Management System: It is recommended to establish a 'four-check system,' including daily checks of power lines, weekly testing of lifting functions, monthly clearing of flammable items, and quarterly emergency evacuation drills.
• Fire Identification Management: Some regions, such as Suzhou Industrial Park, are piloting a 'fire identification' system for office furniture, where each chair is attached with a QR code containing flame retardancy parameters and maintenance records for easy traceability and management.