TÜV Rheinland will open a furniture testing facility in Kentwood, Michigan to help manufacturers comply with requirements for office furniture established by ISO, BIFMA, and European certification authorities.

The global company specializes in testing, inspection and certification services.

“Furniture manufacturers are eager to ensure that their products meet these standards, including the ISO 24496 requirements, but there’s been very limited test capacity in the United States,” said Stephan Pesch, local field manager, Hardlines, for TÜV Rheinland North America. “With the opening of this new lab, we’ll be able to help those manufacturers comply with legal, fitness for use, and quality requirements. More than that, we work closely with our customers not only to ensure they meet all the necessary requirements, but also provide the customer satisfaction that quality-minded manufacturers seek.”

In addition to regular and large-occupant office chairs, TÜV Rheinland said it can ensure manufacturers meet the requirements for lounge seating, desk products, panel systems, storage units, educational seating, and occasional-use seating.

The company said it chose the Grand Rapids area due to its proximity to BIFMA (Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association).

The grand opening of the 3,000-square-foot lab takes place March 5, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. EST. The lab is located at 3650 Broadmoor Ave., Kentwood, Michigan. For information or to register, contact Anabel Gray, event marketing manager, TÜV Rheinland North America, at agray@us.tuv.com.