| 1 | Ergonomic adjustability | Check whether seat height, backrest, and armrests can be adjusted to suit different users and desk setups. Confirm the adjustment range and operating method. | Model-specific specification sheet, adjustment-range measurements, and product photos or samples showing the controls. | Compare measured ranges with the needs of your users; avoid relying on descriptions such as “fully ergonomic” without specifications. |
| 2 | Lumbar and back support | Inspect the shape, position, and adjustability of the back support. Check whether the backrest supports a range of seated postures without restricting movement. | Technical drawings, adjustment instructions, and a physical sample or video demonstrating the backrest functions. | Assess fit and comfort with representative users. A chair’s design alone does not establish a medical or therapeutic benefit. |
| 3 | Seat fit and pressure comfort | Verify seat width, depth, edge shape, and height range. Consider whether the seat pan can accommodate the intended user population. | Dimensioned drawings, product specifications, and sample-chair evaluation records. | Compare dimensions with user requirements and trial the chair over realistic work periods where possible. |
| 4 | Stability and mechanical safety | Review the chair’s structural design, base, casters, tilt mechanism, and applicable safety and durability testing. | Current, model-specific test reports identifying the test standard, laboratory, tested configuration, and report date. | For general-purpose office chairs, ask whether testing covers the applicable requirements of ANSI/BIFMA X5.1 or EN 1335 for the target market. |
| 5 | Materials and durability | Identify the materials used in the frame, foam, upholstery, armrests, and casters. Check how wear, abrasion, and component durability are evaluated. | Bill of materials, material specifications, and relevant test reports. Upholstery abrasion may be assessed using methods such as ISO 12947, where appropriate. | Compare test methods and results for equivalent materials and constructions; do not compare unlike tests as if they were identical. |
| 6 | Chemical and emissions information | Clarify which chemical requirements apply to the destination market and which chair components are covered by the supplier’s declarations or tests. | Material declarations, applicable chemical test reports, and a written statement identifying the model, components, and regulatory scope. | Check relevant market rules, including applicable REACH requirements for the EU. Request evidence rather than accepting a general “non-toxic” claim. |
| 7 | Quality management and production control | Review incoming-material checks, in-process inspections, final inspection, defect handling, and traceability for production batches. | Quality-control plan, sample inspection records, corrective-action process, and a current ISO 9001 certificate if claimed. | ISO 9001 concerns a quality management system; it is not, by itself, certification of a particular chair’s performance. |
| 8 | Factory and product traceability | Confirm the actual manufacturing location, which processes are performed there, and how finished products and components are identified by batch or date. | Factory profile, production-process overview, sample labels, and an agreed procedure for notifying buyers of changes to materials or components. | Check that the factory and product details match the documents, samples, purchase order, and shipping records. |
| 9 | Warranty and after-sales support | Compare warranty duration and coverage by component, exclusions, spare-parts availability, and procedures for reporting and resolving defects. | Written warranty terms, spare-parts list, claims workflow, and response-time commitments included in the sales agreement. | Evaluate the practical cost and availability of replacement parts, not just the stated warranty period. |
| 10 | Export and documentation readiness | Check experience with the destination country, packaging requirements, shipping terms, product labeling, and document preparation. | Sample commercial and shipping documents, packaging specifications, product labels, and a clear list of buyer and supplier responsibilities. | Confirm applicable import, labeling, and product requirements with the relevant authorities or qualified compliance advisers before ordering. |