ISO 7174-2:1992

Overview

ISO 7174-2:1992 - Furniture - Chairs - Determination of stability - Part 2: Chairs with tilting or reclining mechanisms when fully reclined, and rocking chairs - specifies test methods for determining the rearward stability of chairs that tilt, recline (fully reclined), or rock. It complements ISO 7174-1, which covers forward and sideward stability of upright chairs and stools. Test results apply only to the actual article tested.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope: Methods apply only to rearward stability of tilting, reclining (adjustable back angle), and rocking chairs when fully reclined. Not a substitute for tests on upright chairs.
• Representation of test person: Test apparatus represents a person of 110 kg mass and 190 cm stature; intended to simulate arms-stretched/behind-head posture with legs under the chair.
• Test equipment:
  • Loading discs: 10 kg each, diameter 350 mm, thickness 48 mm.
  • Disc stack and support apparatus (suggested design provided); support apparatus should be as light as possible and not heavier than 25 kg.
  • Floor surface: horizontal, flat and rigid.
• Typical loading procedures:
  • Tilting chairs: load with 11 discs against the back (secured with support apparatus); rock forward until back support vertical and observe overbalance.
  • Rocking chairs: allow chair to rock rearward freely under gravity with appropriate disc loading.
  • Reclining chairs with footrest: load back with 8 discs, place 3 discs on footrest at specified distances; footrest folding may require alternate forward-stability test per ISO 7174-1.
  • Reclining chairs without footrest: load back with 8 discs and 3 discs on the seat at specified positions.
• Angles and exemptions: Tests are not required when certain geometry thresholds are met (e.g., minimum angle values greater than 55° or 45° in specific cases).
• Tolerances: Forces ±1%, masses ±0.5%, dimensions ±0.5 mm unless stated otherwise.
• Test report must include reference to ISO 7174-2, specimen details, pass/fail (overbalance or not), deviations, test facility name/address, and test date.

Applications and users

• Who uses it: furniture manufacturers, test laboratories, product designers, safety engineers, procurement teams, certification bodies and regulatory agencies.
• Practical value:
  • Verifies rearward stability of reclining/rocking chairs to reduce tip-over risk.
  • Supports product development, quality control, and conformity assessment.
  • Helps demonstrate compliance for tendering, safety certification, and reduced liability.

Related standards

• ISO 7174-1:1988 - Chairs - Determination of stability - Part 1: Upright chairs and stools (forward/sideward tests).
• Other related series: ISO 7170–7174 (furniture strength/durability and stability).