Overview
ISO 7172:1988 - Furniture - Tables - Determination of stability describes a standardized method to evaluate the overturning resistance of free-standing tables (excluding tables permanently fixed to a building). The standard defines test set‑up, equipment requirements and procedures to measure the vertical and combined vertical-plus-horizontal forces that cause table legs to lift from the floor. Results are reported in newtons and are valid for the specific specimen tested.
Key Topics
- Scope: Stability testing of all kinds of free-standing tables (including pedestal and non‑rectangular tops); excludes permanently attached tables.
- Test equipment:
- Vertical force application device (accuracy ±5%).
- Horizontal force application device (e.g., spring gauge) (accuracy ±5%).
- Stops to prevent sliding (normally ≤ 12 mm high; higher only if design requires and then use lowest effective height).
- Flat, horizontal floor surface.
- Test procedure:
- Position table with stops against the legs on one side; tighten fittings.
- Apply a vertical force at the tabletop centre along the side with stops; centre of gravity of the applied force 50 mm from the outer edge.
- Increase force until at least one opposite leg lifts; record the vertical force (newtons, nearest whole number).
- Repeat with stops along a short side.
- For combined vertical and horizontal forces, apply the vertical force as above and progressively apply an outward horizontal force (e.g., a strip between vertical device and tabletop) until a leg lifts; record combined-force values.
- Extension leaves: Test the least stable leaf arrangement (trial-and-error to find weakest configuration).
- Reporting requirements: Reference to ISO 7172, product identification, measured stability values (vertical and vertical+horizontal), extension-leaf results, deviations from the standard, test facility name/address and date.
Applications
- Product development and design validation for table stability and user safety.
- Quality assurance and batch testing in manufacturing.
- Independent laboratory testing for conformity, certification, or procurement specifications.
- Risk assessment for public spaces (schools, offices, hospitality) to reduce overturning hazards.
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 7172, table stability test, furniture testing, vertical force, horizontal force, stability measurement, test report, table safety.
