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What is ANSI?
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is an organization that works to set new standards for a variety of businesses and industries. Their goal is not only to improve the American standard of living for consumers and workers, but also to create products that compete with other companies and manufacturers around the world. ANSI was founded in 1918 and created the American Standard Safety Code in 1921.
In the early days, ANSI was primarily concerned with preventing workplace accidents. In fact, their first major achievement was advocating new procedures that would protect the eyes and heads of workers in factory settings. As technology continues to advance and more homes are equipped with electronic devices, ANSI has expanded its vision to address the growing security concerns facing consumers.
In the 1980s, ANSI underwent another major transformation as businesses began to understand the need for international standards to attract foreign markets. As trade continued to expand and become global, ANSI began working closely with partner organizations including the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Today, ANSI is committed to making sure that every product, part of the global supply chain, provides American consumers with safe, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly products. ANSI continues to grow and evolve as technology, manufacturing and global markets change. This allows workers and consumers to know that they are actively protected from hazards at work and at home. ANSI ratings are one of the reasons why office chairs with the best ratings tend to come from well-known commercial manufacturers rather than budget brands.
What is BIFMA?
The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) is another organization that works to improve safety and performance standards for businesses to continue innovation and collaboration. While ANSI covers many industries, including office furniture, BIFMA is dedicated exclusively to the commercial furniture industry.
BIFMA was founded in 1973 as a non-profit trade organization focused on educating consumers, monitoring the implementation of national codes, advocating for sustainable products and practices and forecasting market trends. Their efforts have continued to push the industry and make a positive impact on the global furniture market. BIFMA certification is very important when buying office chairs with a solid warranty – manufacturers who invest in BIFMA testing often back their products with better warranties.
Are ANSI and BIFMA Governmental Organizations?
You may be surprised to know that both ANSI and BIFMA are non-profit organizations that set voluntary standards. Furniture manufacturers are not required to meet the standards set by these organizations, but ultimately it is in their best interest to be members of these organizations and work with them to help the industry grow.
Although ANSI and BIFMA are not under direct government supervision, they work closely with various departments to share information and collaborate on setting new standards. The US government and these voluntary organizations enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship primarily because they share common goals that include consumer protection. This collaborative environment also allows for the free flow of knowledge between different organizations, which is a driving force for innovation.
How Does a Product Get an ANSI/BIFMA Rating?
In order for a piece of office or commercial furniture to receive an ANSI and BIFMA rating, it is subjected to a rigorous set of tests specially designed and developed by experts. These tests are designed to measure safety, performance and sustainability. Each furniture, manufacturing facility and company must meet a set of strict standards before receiving an ANSI or BIFMA rating.
Office furniture is awarded points in four categories including: materials, energy and air, human and environmental health and social responsibility. Based on the number of points awarded, BIFMA offers three rating levels:
- Level 1: The first stage of guaranteed performance
- Level 2: It ensures that additional levels of performance are achieved
- Level 3: The highest level that can be offered
This tiered system is in line with how eco-friendly office furniture certifications work more broadly – both reward increased investment in sustainability and safety over a minimum.
How Do I Know If a Product Has Achieved ANSI/BIFMA Rating?
Companies work hard to meet ANSI and BIFMA standards, so you will find that the fact that they have received a rating is advertised. This information should be available on the product’s website and on any packaging materials. Look for the ANSI and BIFMA logos on any office furniture you are considering purchasing. If you are not sure what rating the products you are looking at have achieved, be sure to ask the seller or representative.
Why Should I Care About ANSI and BIFMA Standards?
Remember that membership in these organizations and testing for a rating is completely voluntary. Although there are many laws and regulations governing different industries, high standards are set by these types of trade associations. When you purchase a piece of office furniture that has received an ANSI and BIFMA rating, you know you are investing in a safe and sustainable product that meets strict performance standards.
As a business owner or manager, you have a responsibility to create a safe and healthy work environment. ANSI and BIFMA rated office furniture helps you meet these goals by offering options that are non-toxic to the air and designed to prevent injury. Ultimately, a safer office means better productivity and less absenteeism due to illness. Understanding ratings also goes hand in hand with understanding the truth about office furniture warranties – certified products usually carry a meaningful warranty.
Additionally, you will know that the production facility meets certain safety standards, which means that workers are adequately protected and the company is known for supporting industry best practices. Not only will you get the absolute best products on the market, you’ll be participating in ethical and conscientious shopping.
The Bottom Line
With so many options on the market, the best way to narrow down your choices is to look for the ANSI and BIFMA logos. This gives you a clear indication of a certain level of quality right from the start.
From there, you can start looking at other specific features and know that without worrying if you are investing in a tested safe product.
As mentioned above, if you are not sure if a product is ANSI/BIFMA rated, don’t hesitate to ask. Doing a little research will be worth the effort.