AFRDI

The Australasian Furnishing Research and Development Institute is an independent not-for-profit technical organisation providing standards, testing, product certification and research for buyers and sellers of furniture.

The purpose of testing and certification is to ensure that products are not only safe, but that they will last, thus contributing to sustainability, and minimising use of the earth's resources.

During the testing, the products go through various criteria;
- Strength
- Durability
- Stability
- Function e.g. fitness for purpose (usually including ergonomic and basic safety criteria)
- Flammability (where appropriate)
- Reasonable finish and workmanship

Most certified office swivel chairs in Australia and NZ are tested to the requirements of AS/NZS 4438:1997 - Height adjustable swivel chairs. This standard is regarded as appropriate for people up to about 110 kg*.

An AFRDI Level 6 certified office chair will meet most commercial needs. Level 6 chairs should be able to withstand extremely severe conditions of use, such as police stations, military installations, control rooms and use in heavy industry.

*This does not mean the chair will not be able to hold more weight. As 98% of the population fit under the 110kg bracket, the testing is stopped there.