Industrial furniture — features, manufacturing requirements and selection criteria

The requirements for manufacturing industrial furniture are quite strict and include several key aspects such as the choice of materials, functionality and compliance with safety standards. Here are the main ones:

Materials

strength and durability:

• the materials used must withstand intensive use and adverse environmental conditions (for example, temperature changes, high humidity, exposure to chemicals).
• Typically, metal, special wood with a protective coating, high-strength plastic and composite materials are used.

corrosion resistance:

• metal furniture elements must have an anti-corrosion coating (powder painting, galvanization).

material safety:

• All materials must be non-toxic and safe for the health of workers.
• It is preferable to use environmentally friendly and certified materials.

Functionality

ergonomics:

• furniture should be comfortable and ensure correct body position to avoid occupational diseases.
• adjustable height and angle of inclination of working surfaces.

ease of maintenance and cleaning:

• The design of the furniture should allow easy cleaning and disinfection.
• surfaces must be smooth and resistant to contamination.

modularity and mobility:

• the ability to quickly rebuild and adapt to various tasks.
• presence of wheels for ease of movement (if necessary).

Standards and regulations

compliance with GOST and ISO:

• furniture must comply with state standards (GOST) and international standards (for example, ISO 9001 for a quality management system).

Fire safety:

• use of materials with a high fire safety class.
• availability of certificates confirming fire resistance.

electrical safety (if the furniture has built-in electrical appliances):

• compliance with electrical safety standards.
• protection against electric shock and overloads.

hygiene standards:

• compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements, especially if the furniture is used in the food industry or in medical institutions.

Example of standards to look out for:

• GOST R 58182-2018: “Furniture for catering establishments. General technical conditions».
• GOST R 51869-2002: “Office furniture. General technical conditions».

Compliance with these requirements by enterprises engaged in the manufacture of industrial furniture is a guarantee of the quality and safety of structures. What, in particular, means: such furniture will be able to satisfy the needs of workers and ensure a high level of productivity.

Criteria for choosing industrial furniture

When choosing furniture for industrial plants, it is important to consider a number of criteria to ensure compliance with the specific requirements of production and to ensure durability and safety of use. Here are the main selection criteria:

functionality and fitness for purpose

• determine for what purpose the furniture will be used (desks, storage cabinets, shelving, seating, etc.).
• make sure that the furniture meets the specific tasks and operating conditions.

quality yours and reliability

• check the materials from which the furniture is made. It must be durable and wear-resistant.
• Pay attention to design features such as stability, ability to withstand high loads and frequent movements.

compliance

• make sure that the furniture complies with state and international standards (for example, GOST, ISO).
• Check for quality certificates and compliance with safety and hygiene standards.

ergonomics and ease of use

• furniture should provide comfortable working conditions that help reduce fatigue and increase productivity.
• check the possibility of adjusting furniture elements (height, tilt, etc.) to adapt to the individual needs of employees.

ease of maintenance and cleaning

• Choose furniture with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces that are resistant to harsh chemicals and stains.
• appreciate the ease of assembling, disassembling and moving furniture.

safety

• Check that the furniture does not have sharp corners or edges that could pose a danger to employees.
• Make sure that all furniture items are securely fastened and resistant to tipping.

environmental friendliness

• preference should be given to furniture made from environmentally friendly materials that do not contain toxic substances.
• Having environmental certificates will be an additional advantage.

cost and budget

• evaluate the value for money. Cheap furniture may be less durable and require frequent replacement.
• consider offers from different suppliers and choose the best option taking into account all the criteria.

reviews and recommendations

• Research reviews from other businesses using similar furniture.
• Consult with colleagues or specialists who can provide recommendations based on their own experience.

warranty and service

• Find out about the warranty periods for furniture and the conditions of warranty service.
• Availability of service and spare parts is also important for long-term use.

Approximate selection algorithm

• needs analysis: Determine what types of furniture are needed and for what tasks.
• market research: Explore offers from various manufacturers and suppliers.
• comparison of options: compare furniture according to the above criteria (materials, standards, ergonomics, etc.).
• assessment of cost and delivery conditions: evaluate the cost of furniture, terms of delivery, installation and additional services.
• decision-making: make a choice based on a comprehensive assessment of all factors.

Following these criteria will help you choose high-quality, safe and functional furniture that will serve effectively in your business.