SIST EN 14072:2004

Overview

SIST EN 14072:2004 - Glass in Furniture - Test Methods is a European standard developed by CEN (European Committee for Standardization). This standard specifies test methods for assessing the safety and performance of both horizontal and vertical glass used in furniture. It covers both flat and curved glass, ensuring that furniture containing glass components meets consistent evaluation criteria in terms of resistance to impact and accidental contact, simulating real-world scenarios involving human interaction. Notably, this standard does not set requirements or classifications for the glass itself-that aspect is addressed under EN 12600. SIST EN 14072:2004 applies across domestic, commercial, and contract furniture applications, but it excludes glass shelves, glass fully supported over its area, and wall-fixed mirrors.

Key Topics

• Scope and Coverage

  • Test methods for both flat and curved glass in furniture
  • Applicable to horizontal and vertical glass components
  • Excludes glass shelves and fully-supported glass, such as wall mirrors

• Simulated Impact Testing

  • Tests designed to simulate impact forces from parts of the human body
  • Ensures that glass in furniture can withstand everyday use and accidental impacts

• Test Equipment and Conditions

  • Specifies the use of impact hammers and impactors for vertical and horizontal glass respectively
  • Outlines the use of supporting surfaces, stops, and cushioning materials (polyurethane foam, rubber pads)
  • Establishes environmental and preparation conditions for testing

• Assessment of Test Results

  • Procedures for evaluating post-test conditions of glass, such as fragment shapes and attachment
  • Types of glass breakage considered: complete fragmentation, cracks with held fragments, or relatively harmless disintegration

• Test Reporting

  • Detailed documentation required: reference to the standard, product details, test parameters, and outcomes

Applications

SIST EN 14072:2004 is essential for manufacturers, specifiers, and testing laboratories involved in the design and assessment of furniture containing glass components. Practical applications of the standard include:

• Furniture Safety Testing: Ensures that glass integrated into tables, cabinet doors, partitions, and similar furniture is tested to withstand accidental human impact.
• Product Development: Helps designers create safer glass furniture by incorporating testable, impact-resistant elements.
• Quality Assurance: Supports manufacturers in demonstrating compliance with European safety assessment methods for glass in furniture.
• Public and Commercial Environments: Provides assurance for contract furniture in high-traffic locations such as offices, hotels, schools, and public spaces.
• Domestic Use: Offers guidelines for safe integration of glass elements in home furniture.

Related Standards

• EN 12600: Glass in building - Pendulum test - Impact test method and classification for flat glass. While SIST EN 14072:2004 specifies test methods, EN 12600 addresses the performance and classification of flat glass itself, often referenced when additional properties or classifications are required.
• EN ISO 2439: Flexible cellular polymeric materials - Determination of hardness (indentation technique). Referenced within EN 14072 for assessing cushioning materials used during testing.
• ISO 7619: Rubber - Determination of indentation hardness, relevant to evaluating the hardness of pads employed in the test setups.

By adhering to SIST EN 14072:2004, manufacturers and testers contribute to higher safety standards and risk reduction in environments where glass furniture is utilized, enhancing both product reliability and consumer safety. For highest relevance and compliance, EN 14072 should be considered alongside the latest editions of referenced standards.