These standards cover, strength, durability, stability, flammability and safety. Ergonomic assessment is available for AS/NZS 4438 only. The suppliers of the chairs have formally agreed to maintain quality and to submit their products to regular auditing.
AS/NZS 4438 (levels 4, 5 and 6)
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.
AFRDI Level 5 certified office chairs are suitable for heavy duty office, industrial and similar application.
AFRDI Level 4 certified office chairs are suitable for office, general keyboard and executive use.
AFRDI 142 – Rated Load
This standard is designed to cater for chairs intended to be used by people heavier than 110 kg.
It is available in the following options:
| Options | Chairs for |
| 135 SS | People up to and including 135 kg for single 8 hr shift operations. (i.e. approx 40 hrs use per week) |
| 135 MS | People up to and including 135 kg for multiple shift operations (i.e. significantly greater than 40 hrs use per week) |
| 160 SS | People up to and including 160 kg for single 8 hr shift operations. (i.e. approx 40 hrs use per week) |
| 160 MS | People up to and including 160 kg for multiple shift operations (i.e. significantly greater than 40 hrs use per week) |
The Rated Load standard (AFRDI 142) does not include dimensional/ergonomic criteria. All Rated Load options apply equal or greater loads and cycles than AFRDI level 6.
Information Kits on chair testing are also available - further information may be requested from This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
List of Certified Height Adjustable Swivel Chairs (including Rated Load chairs)
Furntech bulletin article - December 2011 "Don’t be misled by big chair weight ratings"
List of Specialist Office Seating - strength & durability only certified for AS/NZS 4438
Information Kit on Testing Office Swivel Chairs to AS/NZS 4438
Information Kit on Testing Office Swivel Chairs to AFRDI 142 (Rated Loads)
