Wiktor Wise
Electrically enhanced furniture is becoming increasingly common, with features such as USB ports, wireless chargers, and LED lighting being built into desks, tables, and other furnishings. The integration of technology into furniture presents safety and compliance challenges for manufacturers due to the potential hazards of electrification. Standards and certifications, such as those developed by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), aim to address these challenges by providing guidelines for performance, safety, and product life. When designing and installing electrified furniture, it is crucial to consider the safety of assemblers, installers, and end-users, as well as the potential for electrical hazards. While electrical hardware in furniture offers convenience and advancement, adhering to established standards and best practices is essential to ensure the safety and functionality of these innovative products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Ease, advancement, or both |
| Examples | Electric power outlets, USB ports, wireless chargers, LED lighting, cup warmers, phone jacks, lights, plug-ins |
| Standards | BIFMA, UL |
| Safety Devices | Mechanical, electrical |
| Safety Considerations | Safety of assemblers, installers, and service providers |
| Hazards | Electrical and fire |
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What You'll Learn
Safety standards for electrified furniture
Electrically enhanced furniture is becoming increasingly common, from offices to homes. As such, there are a number of safety standards and considerations that should be followed to ensure safety and compliance.
The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) develops furniture standards in association with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). BIFMA writes industry standards for performance, safety, product life and testing procedures. BIFMA standards include a reference requirement that states if furniture has electrical features, it should be evaluated to UL 962 or UL 1286, depending on the product. UL 962 identifies the types and levels of risk associated with a furnishing based on its intended use. UL 962 outlines requirements for mechanical and electrical safety devices, wiring enclosures and electrically moving parts.
Underwriters Laboratories, now UL Solutions, has its own ANSI-referenced furniture standards. UL certifies electrical and fire hazard product safety and incorporates BIFMA standards in its lab testing. UL 962 and UL 1286 are used to evaluate products to ensure safety and compliance. UL certification targets the safety and operability of electrical components, including actuators, motors, integrated luminaries, electrical outlets and IoT connectivity.
Furniture manufacturers should also consider the safety of those who assemble, install or service electrified furniture. Feedback from electricians can be used to improve the design of electrified furniture. UL offers certification programs to help minimize the potential risks associated with electrified furniture products. Using UL Certified components can help minimize recalls, lost sales and finances, as well as potential damage to brand reputation.
There are also general safety considerations for electrified furniture, such as the risk of overheating, flammability, chemical content and emissions.
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Electrical hardware installation tools
Electrical hardware can be incorporated into furniture in various ways, such as including a power strip, USB port, wireless charger, or LED lighting. When installing electrical hardware, it is important to follow safety standards and guidelines, such as those provided by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL). These standards ensure the safety and proper functioning of the electrical components.
- Screwdrivers: Electricians typically carry a variety of insulated screwdrivers or a screwdriver set. These are used for loosening and fastening hardware such as a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). Phillips screwdrivers and nut drivers are also essential. An electric screwdriver can be battery-powered or corded, offering more manual dexterity and convenience for larger projects.
- Tape measures: A simple retractable tape measure is useful for obtaining exact measurements when working with wiring, ensuring that wires are cut and stripped precisely.
- Drills: A handheld electric drill with various bits can speed up tasks such as installing lighting fixtures. Cordless drills are particularly useful when working in areas without power access.
- Levels: A standard level ensures that fixtures, screws, and installations are placed precisely and levelled. A torpedo level, for instance, fits easily in a tool pouch and ensures level and plumb work.
- Fish tape: This tool is used to run wiring between gang boxes or other electrical components through conduit piping. It is housed in a retractable coil, allowing wiring to be pulled along the conduit easily.
- Fishing rods: These are essential when installing wires through walls, ceilings, or floors. They are typically made of fibreglass and have hooks for easy manoeuvring in tight spaces.
- Voltage tester: This specialty tool is crucial for electrical work, allowing users to test for voltage and ensure safety when working with electrical components.
- Flashlights: Electrical work often involves dark spaces, so a tactical flashlight, hand flashlights, or a headlamp are essential for safety and convenience.
These tools will help you safely and effectively install electrical hardware in furniture, ensuring that your project meets the necessary standards and regulations.
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USB charging ports
The integration of USB ports into furniture is part of a broader trend of "electrically enhanced furnishings". This trend includes features such as wireless chargers, LED lighting, and power outlets built directly into furniture. Such additions are becoming commonplace in various settings, from office spaces to hotel lobbies, airport lounges, hospital waiting rooms, and college lecture halls.
When installing USB charging ports into furniture, safety is a key consideration. Standards organisations like the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL Solutions) provide guidelines and certification programs to ensure the safety and performance of electrically enhanced furniture. These standards address mechanical and electrical safety devices, wiring enclosures, and electrically moving parts.
For those interested in incorporating USB charging ports into their own furniture, there are resources available that offer guidance on safely wiring electrical components. Some companies, such as Legrand, offer products specifically designed to add power and charging connections directly into furniture. Their Round Furniture Power Center, for example, is easy to install and seamlessly blends into the furniture.
Overall, the inclusion of USB charging ports in furniture is a response to the growing reliance on smart devices and the desire for convenient charging solutions. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see further integration of USB ports and other electrical features into our furniture, making our lives easier and more connected.
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Electric furniture design
When designing electric furniture, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Furniture manufacturers must ensure their products meet established standards and certifications to minimize potential hazards. The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL Solutions) are two organizations that develop furniture standards in association with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). BIFMA focuses on performance, safety, product life, and testing procedures, while UL certifies electrical and fire hazard product safety. Compliance with these standards provides peace of mind for installers, contractors, and end-users.
One of the key design considerations for electric furniture is the integration of electrical components. Designers must thoughtfully incorporate outlets, USB charging ports, lights, and other electrical features while maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of the piece. Concealing cables and utilizing false spaces within the furniture can create a sleek and elegant look, enhancing the overall design.
Additionally, the choice of materials plays a significant role in electric furniture design. Wood, for example, is a popular material for furniture and can be safely incorporated into electric designs. When working with wood, designers must consider the wiring setup, including the use of metal shielding, junction boxes, and surge protectors, to ensure safe and effective electrical connections.
Furthermore, it is essential to involve electricians and electrical experts in the design process. Their feedback can help identify potential improvements and ensure the furniture is safe and user-friendly for assembly, installation, and service. By collaborating with specialists, designers can create electric furniture that meets the necessary safety criteria and provides a positive user experience.
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Electrically adjustable furniture
The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) develops furniture standards in association with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). BIFMA standards require that electrically adjustable furniture be evaluated for safety and electrical components. This includes the presence of mechanical and electrical safety devices, requirements for wiring enclosures, and electrically moving parts. UL standards also certify electrical and fire hazard product safety, and their standards reference BIFMA's, providing guidance for electrical specifiers, designers, and installers.
When designing electrically adjustable furniture, safety is a key concern. Furniture manufacturers often consult with electricians to ensure that their products are safe and easy to assemble, install, and service. Installers, contractors, and end-users should be provided with peace of mind through the adherence to strict furniture standards.
In addition to height-adjustable desks, electrically adjustable furniture can also include privacy pods, which are growing in popularity. Electrically adjustable furniture pieces may also include sensors that detect the relative position or movement of the furniture part to determine if it is occupied. This allows for simplified operating arrangements, as users do not need to manually adjust the furniture.
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Frequently asked questions
Electrical hardware that can be installed in furniture includes electrical outlets, USB charging ports, night lights, and wireless charging devices.
The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) develop furniture standards that address safety, performance, and product life. UL offers a BIFMA Performance Certification Program and certifies electrical and fire hazard product safety.
When adding electrical fixtures to custom furniture, it is important to use common sense and follow safety guidelines. Use wire that is at least 14 AWG or protect thinner wire with an appropriately sized miniature circuit breaker. Consider using fixtures specifically designed for furniture integration, such as those with standard connectors, to simplify the installation process.
The integration of technology into furniture can pose safety and compliance challenges due to the potential hazards of electrification and connectivity. It is important for manufacturers to understand the safety landscape surrounding electrified furniture products to minimize risks and build customer trust.
Mechanical equipment such as cutting machines, edge banding machines, side hole machines, and panel saws are used in furniture production. Installation tools such as electric drills and screwdrivers are required during the installation process.
