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Quality and Testing Regulations for Outdoor Furniture
Quality Assurance
RAL-GZ 430/11
Dated: January 2022
Editor
RAL Deutsches Institut für Gütesicherung und Kennzeichnung e. V.
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53229 Bonn
Tel.: (+49) 228 68895-0
Fax: (+49) 228 68895-430
E-Mail: RAL-Institut@RAL.de
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© 2022, RAL, Bonn
Quality and Testing
Regulations for
Outdoor Furniture
Quality Assurance
RAL-GZ 430/11
Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft
Möbel e.V.
Friedrichstraße 13 - 15
90762 Fürth
Tel.: +49 911 950 999 80
Fax: +49 911 950 999 850
E-Mail: dgm@dgm-moebel.de
Internet: www.dgm-moebel.de
These Quality and Testing Regulations have been established by RAL Deutsches Institut für Gütesicherung und Kennzeichnung e. V. (RAL German Institute for Quality Assurance and Labelling) under the principles for quality labelling in a recognition process together with expert groups and responsible authorities
Bonn, January 2022
RAL Deutsches Institut für Gütesicherung und Kennzeichnung e. V.
Foreword to the Furniture Quality Assurance RAL-GZ 430
RAL-GZ 430 has been the “gold standard” for good furniture quality for more than half a century. However, its contents require constant adaptation in order to meet the needs of changing consumer requirements on the one hand and technical as well as social developments on the other. Standards, laws, and other recognised rules of technology are constantly changing. They are an essential part of RAL-GZ 430, which in its quality requirements, however, often goes beyond normative basic requirements.
With the claim of a holistic quality standard for furniture, RAL-GZ 430 includes in testable form the topics of processing quality, utility and comfort, product safety, healthy living as well as sustainability in product design and material selection.
The previously proven requirements and test methods have been adopted largely unchanged in this new edition of the RAL. In detail, however, changes, updates and adaptations were necessary, based on the experience in dealing with this set of rules and due to changes in standards which are referenced in this RAL.
As the person responsible for the editorial processing of the results of the DGM working groups, I would like to express my special thanks to the staff of these working groups as well as to the editorial team of the DGM. Without the dedicated cooperation and competent contributions of the voluntary DGM working group participants, further development and updating of RAL-GZ 430 would not have been possible.
Reimund Heym Head of Technology and Standardisation
It all started with RAL-GZ 430. It is the basis for the “Golden M” certification, which focused on quality, function, and environmental compatibility early on. It was and still is a matter of consumer protection.
I am all the more pleased that the Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel e. V. recognised early on that quality, and thus durability, is an essential part of sustainability. Various certification offers in this area followed, whether it was climate neutrality or emission measurements of the products. Then, in 2019, very consistently, the Advisory Board for Sustainability was founded to meet the everincreasing pressure for change, which was also of a legislative nature. Today, sustainability is no longer a trend, nor is it a megatrend, but a must, an imperative.
We need to recognise that companies are part of the environment and part of society, that we are all part of a system with interdependencies, no matter what we do or don’t do. Sustainability management is a journey that never ends for companies. With its various certifications, the DGM offers companies goals and intermediate destinations for this journey, and thus also offers the end-consumer reliable information on the subject of sustainability.
With this in mind, I am honoured to be able to shape the future with the wonderful people on the Advisory Board and I look forward to continued constructive discussions leading to results for the good of all.
Dr Susanne Steinhauer Chairwoman Advisory Board for Sustainability
1. Area of Application
These Quality and Testing Regulations apply to the condition of outdoor furniture that may be labelled with the RAL quality mark. All legal regulations must be observed as a matter of principle. In addition, quality assured furniture must meet the requirements as defined below. All standards relating to the scope of these Quality and Testing Regulations shall be consulted as well.
Only the most recent versions of standards or their relevant replacements are valid. The requirements apply to furniture in new condition. Proper transport and professional assembly of the products are assumed.
2. Quality and Testing Regulations
The basic requirements for quality assured furniture are regulated by the relevant standards and guidelines of the Quality and Testing Regulations, compliance with which is mandatory as a prerequisite for initial testing according to Section 3.1
Furniture that contains functional and constructional elements not included in RAL-GZ 430 must conform to current technological standards.
3. Monitoring
Monitoring is divided as follows:
• Initial testing
• Internal quality control
• External quality control
• Repeat testing
• Testing and monitoring report / Approval license
• Testing costs
• Inspectors
3.1. Initial testing
Passing the initial test is one of the requirements for the award and use of the quality mark of the Quality Association. Initial testing is carried out in the production facilities of the applicant. As part of this assessment, random laboratory test samples are taken from ongoing production by the commissioned third-party inspector. If the applicant can provide test certificates for supplied products or materials, the test procedure is reduced. It is, however, important that these documents (test certificates may not be older than 1 year) are based on the current technological standards and the tests were carried out by competent and neutral testing institutes
3.2. Internal quality control
Ongoing internal quality control, which can be reproduced at any time, is mandatory for all quality mark users. Users must carefully record the results of internal quality controls, keep them for at last 5 years and present them to the appointed inspector for inspection upon request within the scope of external quality control procedures
3.3. External quality control
In order to ensure the consistent quality of quality assured products, external quality control is carried out every 2 years on the premises of the quality mark user. Within the first 3 years of awarding the quality mark/membership, external quality control is carried out annually. This test covers the inspection of the results of all quality control measures (e. g. internal quality control, test reports from competent, neutral testing institutes) and the inspection of the proper manufacturing of “quality assured outdoor furniture”.
3.4. Repeat testing of external quality control
If deficiencies in the quality assurance are detected during external quality control measures, the Quality Committee can order a repetition of the test, whereby the type, content and scope of this test are determined by the Quality Committee of Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft
Möbel e. V. Should the repeat test also conclude with a negative result, the Quality Committee may, in agreement with the Executive Board, take further measures in accordance with Section 10.5 of the Implementing Regulations for the Award and Use of the Quality Mark.
3.5. Test and monitoring report / Approval license
The contracted external inspectors must draw up corresponding test reports on the tests and quality control procedures carried out; the applicant or quality mark user each receive copies of said reports.
Based on the passed tests, the DGM office issues an approval license for the furniture programs listed therein for a certain term.
3.6. Testing costs
The applicant or quality mark user must bear all arising testing or monitoring costs.
3.7. Inspectors
The Quality Association appoints suitable, expert testing institutes to carry out tests and monitoring measures.
Institutes entrusted with this task must prove their identity to the applicant or quality mark user by submitting a written identification before starting their work
4. Sustainability
Sustainability is to be understood as a development that is ecologically compatible, socially just and economically efficient.
Important in this context is a long product life, which can only be achieved through high quality, which contributes significantly to saving resources and which is therefore an essential part of sustainable economic activity. Another aspect of sustainability is the consideration of social impacts.
Sustainability as well as the environment and personal health are particularly important to consumers today. In close cooperation with leading testing institutes and taking into account more recent specifications of the Federal Environment Agency, the requirements were revised and adapted to the latest scientific findings.
These requirements apply to outdoor furniture as purchasable by consumers in furniture stores.
Manufacturers must ensure that all supplied materials (including those from abroad) comply with the statutory European and German regulations (e. g. Chemicals Act, Banned Chemicals Ordinance and Ordinance on Hazardous Substances, REACH POP) as well as additional DGM requirements.
In case of mandatory normative, legal, safety-relevant as well as contractual specifications regarding the use of materials, substances and requirements, the effects on the requirements according to RAL-GZ 430, especially in the contract sector, are not taken into consideration.
Initial and monitoring tests are to be carried out according to Point 3.
4.1. Protection of health
The preparations (paints, adhesives, stains, coatings, etc.) must not contain substances of the following categories as formulation components:
Substances according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP Regulation):
Categories Carcinogenic 1A and 1B,
Mutagenic 1A and 1B,
Toxic to reproduction 1A and 1B a) Sensitising substances according to the Technical Rule for Hazardous Substances (TRGS) 907 and the EC Regulation 1272/2008, Annex VI b) Substances which are of very high concern for other reasons, and which have been included in the list (so-called candidate list 1) established in accordance with REACH Article 59(1) c) Acutely toxic (poisonous) of the category Acute Tox. 1 or Acute Tox. 2 d) Toxic to specific target organs of the category STOT SE 1, STOT SE 2, STOT RE 1, or STOT RE 2
Excluded from these regulations are: a) Process-related, technically unavoidable impurities that are below the classification limits for mixtures. b) Monomers or additives that react to form polymers or are chemically bonded (covalently) into the plastic during plastic production if their residual concentrations are below the classification limit for mixtures.
4.1.1. Requirements for test samples
The examinations in test chambers can be carried out both as whole-body tests and as component tests. The selection of test samples is to be agreed between the testing institute and the manufacturer and is to be carried out in such a way that all model variants awarded the quality mark are represented by the test
4.1.2. Test material
The final products falling within the area of application differ in shape, materials and the number of materials used. Therefore, in each individual case, the test procedure and the selection of test samples must be determined by the testing institute responsible for the surveillance test in consultation with the manufacturer.
For furniture made of wood and wood-based materials with a three-dimensional surface, there are two ways of testing: a) Whole-body testing, especially for small furniture, chairs, etc. b) Component testing, especially for modular furniture and furniture programs with similar components.
4.1.2.1. Whole-body testing
The product to be tested must be taken directly from current production. Supplied parts may not be older than 10 days. A deviation from this specification is permissible if the manufacturer proves that individual supplied parts used in the normal production process are regularly older than 10 days.
1 Link to the candidate list of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH): https://echa.europa.eu/de/candidate-list-table
Immediately after removal from production, the product must be placed in airtight packaging; box furniture must be packed in closed state.
Note:
During component testing, it is permissible to use the following calculation formula to extrapolate the total concentration of complete products consisting of known area segments of the tested components, based on the established concentrations of volatile organic compounds of the individual components.
The proportionate areas of the total product must be calculated for each component and entered into the formula with the emission values determined:
�������������������� = ∑ �������� (> 5%) ∗ �������� ���� ����=1 ∑ �������� (%) ���� ����=1
Ccalc. = Calculated total concentration for complete product in µg/m³ n = Number of components tested i = Compendent index
Ai (%) = Area share of the i-th component in %
Ci = Concentration of the i-th component in µg/m³
This method can be foregone if none of the tested components exceed the permissible emission values or if the entire product is tested.
4.1.2.2. Component testing
In the case of component testing, e. g. for furniture programs, the testing institute selects the components to be tested in consultation with the manufacturer. The different materials used, in particular different coating systems, must be taken into account. The selection must be made in such a way as to ensure compliance with the requirements of the award criteria for the product to be tested. In the case of components with a total area share of no more than 5% of the product, sample analyses and emission testing are not necessary.
The components to be tested are taken directly from the current production in sufficient quantity. Supplied parts may not be older than 10 days. A deviation from this specification is permissible if the manufacturer proves that individual supplied parts used in the normal production process are regularly older than 10 days. In the case of flat components, at least 3 parts must be taken as a stack, of which only the middle part is used for the emission test
The testing institute must be consulted about the exact sample quantity, taking into account the size of the component and the emission test chamber to be used. The samples taken from the same components must be immediately packed together in airtight packing. The individual samples should be placed as close to each other as possible to minimise unavoidable emissions during transport to the testing institute.
4.1.2.3. Transport
The packaged sample material must be transported to the testing institute as quickly as possible. No more than 7 days may elapse between packaging and arrival at the testing institute
4.1.3. Sample preparation
Until the start of the test, the test sample or sample material must be stored at the testing institute in packaged form.
When preparing the test samples for the emission test, only those flat components should be used that are stored on the inside of the stack and not those on the outside.
Components and complete products can be tested in their original condition in a large test chamber. In this case, p ossible low results for semi-volatile compounds must be taken into account. As a rule, test samples are to be taken from the sample material which can be examined in a test chamber suitable for volatile organic compounds. The test samples should represent the materials used and the different surfaces of a complete piece of furniture. Any narrow surfaces exposed by cutting must be sealed with a suitable sealant.
Self-adhesive, low-emission aluminium foil has proven suitable for this purpose. Any selfemission of the aluminium foil must be determined in preliminary tests.
When calculating the emission area, the surfaces on both sides and the narrow surfaces (without surfaces subsequently sealed as a result of test sample cuts) must be included
After completion of the test samples, they must be immediately placed in the test chambers or stored in packages until the test chamber is loaded.
For the manufacturer's own internal documentation, a sampling protocol (dates of production, packaging, shipping, etc.) must be created for each sample. The time between packaging of the samples at the manufacturer and loading of the chambers should be as short as possible. According to DIN EN 16516, the test must be started within 8 weeks after sampling, provided that the sample is stored in the laboratory in the specified packaging and under normal indoor conditions. Sampling, sample receipt and test start must be documented in the test report
4.1.4. Emission requirements for outdoor furniture
1) The test can be terminated on the 7th day after loading if the required final values of the 28th day are reached and no increase in concentration of one of the detected substances can be detected compared to the measurement on the 3rd day
2) Sum of all individual substances ≥ 5 µg/m³) at test chamber concentration
3) The substance Dimethylformamide (DMF, CAS 68-12-2) is treated separately during the assessment of CMR properties. For DMF, a limit value (based on the LCI value) of < 15 µg/m³ after 28 days applies. The value after 3 days shall not be included in the total evaluation. For the calculation of the R value, DMF must still be taken into account. This regulation is valid for a transitional period until 31.12.2023
As of 01.01.2024, it will no longer apply.
Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are excluded from the CMR assessment (classification: Carc. 1B)
4) The R value is based on the current list of LCI values according to AgBB; https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/medien/4031/dokumente/agbb_bewertungsschema_2021.pdf
Definitions of TVOC spec and TSVOC
TVOCspec:
Sum of all individual substances found ≥ 5 µg/m³ in the retention range C6–C16 (between nhexane up to and including n-hexadecane). The determination is carried out in accordance with the currently valid AgBB scheme. Data in the AgBB scheme for C substances apply here to CMR substances of category 1A and 1B.
TSVOC:
Sum of all individual substances ≥ 5 µg/m³ in the retention range > C16–C22. In individual cases, LCI values have been derived for SVOC. The SVOCs for which LCI values have been determined are to be included in the R value calculation for the requirements after 28 days and are no longer subject to the sum SVOC value. The sum of the TVOCspec value and the sum of the individual SVOC with LCI value must not exceed the TVOC requirements after 28 days (AgBB procedure).
General information on TVOC and TSVOC:
The basis for measuring the emission of volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde is the BAM test method in the current version. The requirements for the test chamber procedure and the analysis are based on DIN EN 16516 in conjunction with the DIN EN ISO 16000 et. seq. series of standards.
4.1.4.1. Odour
The odour test shall be performed after a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 28 days of residence time in the test chamber. In case of a previous test according to Point 4.1.4 , testing can be carried out after the previous test is completed. In the case of several tests, the result of the last test series (longest period in test chamber) is definitive.
Requirements:
Score to be maintained: Level 3.0
The majority of individual scores must not be above level 3.0.
The average must be ≤ 3.0.
Testing:
Odour neutral room:
Temperature: 23° C ± 1° C
Humidity: 50% r. h. ± 5% r. h.
Airflow rate: Depending on the type of test sample
Chamber volume: The chamber volume is based on the specified test chamber size (Table 1)
Room loading: Depending on the type of test sample
At least 7 test persons independently assess the odour intensity according to a 5-point scale:
1 = no odour
2 = weak odour
3 = distinctive, not unpleasant odour
4 = unpleasant odour
5 = unbearable odour
The following should be recorded:
• Age and sex of test persons
• Room size
• Room temperature
• Room humidity (rel. humidity)
• Date of assessment
• Time span between production and odour assessment
Type of odour
Test persons: The test persons (at least 7 persons, at least 3 of them women) should spend at least 10 minutes in a room with clean air before the odour test. The odour assessment is performed undiluted. The test persons should not have any previous exposure to the odours to be evaluated.
Mean value:
Of all the individual values determined, one highest and one lowest are not to be used for averaging. Only the mean value is given in test reports.
4.1.5. Additional material requirements
4.1.5.1. Chlorophenols
Pentachlorophenols / Tetrachlorophenols/ Trichlorophenols
Test specimen: wood-based materials
Requirements:
Table 2 – Values to be maintained for individual biocides
PCP Tetrachlorophenols Trichlorophenols
Wood-based materials < 3 mg/kg < 3 mg/kg
Method of analysis:
The sample is heated with 1 m KOH in a drying oven. An aliquot of the extract is derivatised with acetic anhydride. The derivative is extracted with n-hexane and analysed on capillary GC by ECD. Other methods are permitted if comparability has been demonstrated.
4.1.5.2. Dispersion dyes and pigments
Requirements:
• Carcinogenic dyes
• Mutagenic or teratogenic dispersion dyes
• Potentially irritating dyes
• Dyes containing heavy metals are not permissible.
Testing according to DIN 54231
Proof via manufacturer’s declaration possible.
4.1.5.3. PAH (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)
Testing and evaluation according to AfPS GS 2019:01 PAC
GS Specification “Testing and Evaluation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) in the Award of the GS Mark” of the Product Safety Committee (AfPS) as of April 2020 or the respective current regulation.
Proof via manufacturer’s declaration possible.
4.2. Protection of the environment and climate
4.2.1. Energy and eco-balance
The efforts of manufacturers to minimise the energy and atmospheric environmental impact associated with the transport of their products and supplier materials must be evident from appropriate documents.
The use of self-generated, renewable energy (e. g. burning waste wood) and the purchase of CO2 neutral energy are to be preferred.
To optimise the use of materials and energy with regard to a sustainable eco-balance, the implementation of a life cycle assessment based on the systematics of the standards
DIN EN ISO 14001, DIN EN ISO 14040 and DIN EN ISO 14044 is suitable.
A life cycle assessment or environmental declaration of the products according to DIN EN ISO 14025 (EPD verification) is also recommended.
4.2.2. Human and ecosystem health
In addition to the legal regulations on the handling of chemicals that are harmful to humans and the environment (e. g. REACH Regulation), this Furniture Quality Assurance RAL-GZ 430 contains extensive testing requirements to ensure furniture that has been tested for harmful substances.
4.2.2.1. Liquid coating systems
Operators of coating plants must comply with the requirements of the 31st Federal Imission Control Act (BlmSchV). This shall be proven via the manufacturer’s declaration.
4.2.3. Use of materials
4.2.3.1. Solid wood and wood-based materials
Solid wood and wood -based materials must comply with EU Regulation 995/2010 and, as far as possible, originate from sustainably and legally managed forestry (FSC/PEFC documentation). When using waste wood in wood-based materials, the Waste Wood Ordinance must be observed. Proof of the pollutant limit values of the Waste Wood Ordinance according to testing in compliance with the EPF standard .
4.2.3.2. Plastic components
Plastic components > 50 g should be labelled according to DIN EN ISO 11469 and should not contain additives of other materials that conflict with recycling.
4.2.3.3. Adhesives
The VOC content of adhesives should not exceed 10% for water-based systems and 30% for solvent - based systems
4.2.3.4. PVC
The use of PVC should be limited to furniture parts for which no equivalent other materials are available and for which the special properties of PVC are required.
The use of PVC must be indicated in the product information (PI). Dismountable PVC parts are exempt from this regulation if they are clearly marked as PVC parts
4.2.4. Circular economy
4.2.4.1. Constructional layout – wear – durability
The principles of recycling-friendly design (VDI 2243) must be observed. The use of recyclable and biodegradable materials is to be preferred.
For wear parts, a functional, compatible replacement is ensured over a period of at least 5 years.
The durability of the products shall be ensured by appropriate design. In addition, maintenance care contributes to a long service life of the product.
4.2.4.2. Packaging
The packaging material must be suitable for reuse or recycling. The packaging must be designed in such a way that any volatile components of the furniture can outgas.
4.2.4.3. Reusability / recycling
With regard to reusability and recycling, no material preservatives (fungicides, insecticides, flame retardants) and no halogenated organic compounds may be added to the furniture, or the materials used for its production (wood-based materials, adhesives, coatings, etc.).
This excludes fungicides used solely for in-can preservation in water-based coatings and glues or flame retardants in which inorganic ammonium phosphates (diammonium phosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, etc.), boron compounds (boric acid, borates) or other waterreleasing minerals (aluminium trihydrate or similar) are used for flame retardation.
4.3. Social responsibility
With a view to sustainable human resources development and to ensure health, occupational safety and social working conditions, a company should, in accordance with good management practice, define and document responsibilities and procedural rules concerning this matter.
These include in particular:
• Fair hiring practices
• Continuing education of employees
• Social responsibility in company regulations
• Social ethics
Social ethics may also include social measures for the local environment of the operating site (e. g. sponsoring cultural or charitable institutions). Compliance with the requirements can be achieved through membership of the UN Global Compact 11.4 or equivalent certificates. The Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel supports the UN Global Compact and its 10 principles. These guiding principles for business and human rights are to be implemented by the quality mark users. The implementation is documented during the monitoring audits.
With regard to social responsibility for products of the supply chain over which the company has no direct influence, preference is to be given wherever possible to supplier companies that take social standards into account.
4.4. Advertising statements
Advertising claims must not contain any statements such as “biologically tested” or similar statements that play down hazards as laid out in the EU Directive 67/548/EWG Article 23 (Designation) Section 4 (e. g. “non- toxic”, “no risk to health”, “free from...”).
5. General Quality Principles
It is a prerequisite for “furniture with the quality mark” that suitable materials and construction elements are used which are appropriate to the product and have been professionally processed. Safety, function, and utility are assessed according to the latest standards of technology at the time of product launch. Environmental and health protection as well as product information are essential quality features.
Deviations from the Quality and Testing Regulations
Deviations from the requirements laid out in the Quality and Testing Regulations may be made if an equivalent or higher quality and safety objective is achieved by other means. Suitable proof is required
Visual inspections
Visual inspections are carried out under the following conditions (unless otherwise specified):
General assessment: At distance of 2 to 3 m
Detailed assessment: At distance of 0.7 ± 0.1 m
Assessment basis: normal vision; diffuse daylight (without direct sunlight or artificial light).
Parts that are not visible in the position of use or subordinate parts as well as irregularities that are only visible in grazing light are excluded from the assessment
5.1. Product information
The product information for outdoor furniture shall be made available to the retailer for marketing purposes and for passing on to the end customer and contains the following details based on RAL-GZ 430/11:
1. Product name
2. Product label*
3. Area of application (camping, (residential, commercial)
4. Constructional design
5. Materials
6. Surface treatment
7. Model variants
8. Dimensions
9. Weight
10. Type of cover / upholstery
11. Maximum load
12. Cleaning and care instructions
*Labelling obligations (if applicable) according to the Product Safety Act (ProdSG) must be observed.
Visual inspection
In addition, the following information, if applicable, should be included in the product information:
• Information on wear parts and their repair or replacement, repair service if necessary (For wear parts, a functional compatible replacement of at least 5 years is guaranteed).
• Information on the type and origin of the predominantly used wood
• Specification of other materials (proportion > 3 weight percent)
• Instructions for assembling the products and disassembling them for relocation and subsequent material recycling. For special product groups, the Eco Design Directive (2009/125/EC) must also be observed.
• If PVC must be used, this must be stated in the product information.
5.2. Transport and assembly guidelines
The transport and assembly guidelines, if applicable, must be observed.
5.3. Maintenance care
In order to allow the consumer a long period of use, as well as to effectively conserve resources in the sense of the circular economy, the provision of information for the maintenance care of the product is indispensable.
6. Materials
6.1. Solid wood
6.1.1. Wood equilibrium moisture content
Wood moisture content during processing: Exposed wood: 6 to 10%.
This must not be exceeded or fallen short of during processing.
Blind wood frames: max. 12%
Testing according to DIN EN 13183-1
The wood moisture content of 8 to 12% must not be exceeded or fallen short of during processing. Depending on the type of construction and the wood joints, the wood moisture may have higher tolerances.
Glue joints must be visually closed. Inadmissible are:
• Bark
• Longitudinal and transverse cracks
• Tear-outs
• Loose adhesive parts
• Open glue joints
• Red and blue rot
• Loose knots
• Cuts on visible surfaces (inconspicuous repairs of minor damage by puttying up to 10 mm² are permissible)
• Resin pockets
• Planning and saw marks on visible parts and surfaces
• Insect damage
Exception: The characteristics listed above are part of the furniture’s design features.
Permissible are (if indicated in the product information):
• Firmly intergrown, healthy branches, branch spots, refitted resin pockets
• Dry cracks in knots (cross cracks)
• Minor surface differences caused by the above-mentioned surface treatment methods such as brushing, burning, sandblasting, etc.
• Special surface treatments with corresponding characteristics
• Natural irregularities in structure and colour of glued surfaces
Visual inspection
Joints in solid wood connections
Joints should be as tight as possible to prevent moisture penetration.
6.2. Plastics
• Thermoplastic
• Duroplastic
Material should be selected according to the requirements of use and the relevant technical rules.
6.3. Wood-based materials
Chipboards, plywood (veneer boards) etc. must comply with the applicable standards (DIN, EN, ISO) and plastic-coated flat pressed boards must comply with the AMK brochure 004.
Testing of the screw tightness according to the AMK brochure 003.
6.4. Metal
6.4.1. Metals for outdoor furniture
All materials for outdoor furniture must be treated to ensure that they are sufficiently resistant to corrosion.
After the corrosion test, there must be no signs of corrosion on the visible surfaces.
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 6270-2, 4 cycles AHT (condensation water alternating climate)
6.4.2. Construction, material shapes and thicknesses
The material forms and thicknesses are to be dimensioned according to the requirements of use and the relevant technical rules
This is deemed to be fulfilled if the durability, strength and safety tests listed in Point 6.1.1 and Point 7 are met.
6.4.3. Connections on metal frames
Joints on metal frames must be secured by connecting bolts, clamping bolts or by welded or soldered joints.
6.4.4. Pre-treatment of visible surfaces
All visible surfaces are pre-treated (removal of pores and unevenness on the material surface). Corners and edges are rounded and sanded. Material ends must be cleanly deburred.
Visual inspection
6.4.5. Galvanised surfaces possibly with additional sealant
After the corrosion test, there must be no signs of corrosion on the visible surfaces.
Testing of layer thicknesses, mechanical stressability (abrasion), visual inspection of surfaces (pores, microcracks), testing of corrosion resistance according to DIN EN ISO 6270-2, 4 cycles AHT (condensation water alternating climate)
6.4.6. Painted and coated surfaces
After the corrosion test, there must be no signs of corrosion on the visible surfaces.
Visual inspection, testing of mechanical resistance (abrasion, scratch resistance), adhesion; testing of corrosion resistance according to DIN EN ISO 6270-2, 4 cycles AHT (condensation water alternating climate)
6.5. Solid wood – Assessment criteria
Characteristics overview based on DIN 68360 Part 2 – 5/81 (Standard withdrawn*)
ID: Non-visible parts
IND: Visible parts
Characteristics ID IND
General The wood must be healthy (free from wood-destroying fungi and insects) and free from pith on the parts visible after assembly
Surface The surface must be even and sanded. Saw and plane marks on the parts visible after assembly are inadmissible, unless a specific treatment of the surface, e. g. brushing, sandblasting, or burning, has been agreed
Colour differences
Blue stain
Permissible
Permissible: blue stain, i. e. low blue stain in the initial stage.
Permissible: natural colour differences
Not permissible: on surfaces that remain visible. Bluing on non-visible surfaces is permissible.
Sapwood
Permissible: e. g. for pine and other wood types with similar properties as sapwood.
Not permissible: for wood types whose heartwood and sapwood differ significantly in properties.
Grain deviation
Longitudinal cracks
Not permissible: spiral graining and deviations in grain direction exceeding 2 cm per m
Permissible: small cracks and permanently **(see footnote) repaired cracks which run in the direction of the grain, do not pass through and do not interfere after surface treatment.
Transverse cracks
Resin pockets / resin zones
Bark remnants
Not permissible
Permissible: resin pockets permanently ** (see footnote) repaired down to the base
Permissible: if they are permanently** (see footnote) repaired
Permissible: resin pockets permanently** (see footnote) repaired down to the base
Not permissible.
Bark must also be removed from non-visible parts.
Tree edge
Insect damage
Permissible: without bark in places that are no longer visible after assembly.
Not permissible: except for isolated feeding tunnels up to 2 mm in diameter made by green wood insects.
Not permissible.
Characteristics ID IND
Knots a) Not improved knots
Permissible: only sound, intergrown knots that do not affect the stability of the parts and their usability. Note: Stability and usability may be affected if, for example, the largest knot diameter is greater than 1/3 of the width of an element, as in the case of a frame.
Not permissible: wing knots and dark knots b) Plugged knots Dowel edges must be glued over the entire surface. Gluing depending on the application of the element according to stress group B2 to B4 in compliance with DIN 68 602 (replaced by DIN EN 204).
Permissible: dowels up to 25 mm in diameter and chain dowels up to 3 dowels.
Not permissible
*The national standard has been replaced by DIN EN 942-6/2007. This DIN, however, does not contain the assessment criteria proven in practice in the same way
**Permanently here means repair with wood that is also glued in over the entire surface at the edges.
6.6. Other Materials
6.6.1. Flat glass
Typical material characteristics are:
• Colour tolerance due to the raw materials used
• Colour tolerance due to different dimensions (thickness, length, width). This can be particularly noticeable with a coloured coating.
Testing according to DIN EN 572 Part 4
6.6.2. Mirror glass
Testing according to DIN EN 572 Part 2
Drawing defects
Bubbles, waves, streaks must not be visible when viewed from a distance of 0.7 m.
Visual inspection
6.6.2.1. Frameless glass components
Edge processing:
Minimum requirement: edged, bevelled ≥ 1 mm or rounded r ≥ 1 mm
Corners: bevelled ≥ 2 mm or rounded r ≥ 2 mm
Visual inspection, measuring
Drilled holes
Deviation from DIN EN 572 Part 4:
Shell defects in drilled holes up to 1 mm at the edge of the hole are permissible.
Visual inspection, measuring
6.6.2.
The requirements of DIN EN 1036-1 apply.
6.7.
6.7.1.
6.7.2.
*Technical report withdrawn
6.8. Upholstery fabrics for outdoor use
The requirements are taken from DIN EN 14465 “Upholstery cover fabrics”.
Special fabrics that do not meet the following requirements due to their design-oriented conception and are nevertheless processed may not be associated with the RAL Quality Mark unless the deviating usage properties are clearly pointed out in the product information.
6.8.1. Tensile strength
This characteristic must be determined for all fabrics except knit and non-woven fabrics.
DGM plus requirement: At least 400 N
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 13934-1
6.8.2. Tear resistance
This characteristic must be determined for all fabrics except knit and non-woven fabrics.
DGM plus requirement: At least 30 N
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 13937-3
6.8.3. Resistance to seam slippage
This characteristic must be determined for all fabrics except knit and non-woven fabrics.
DGM plus requirement: Max. 5 mm
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 13936-2
6.8.4. Abrasion resistance
“Abraded” or “completely abraded” means significant changes in structure or appearance such as loss of pile loops, loss of fibres in the flock layer, or destruction of three or more pile loops. These should be indicated in the test report, as should the evaluation interval at which they occurred. This information is purely informative
With regard to colour change, all upholstery fabrics listed below must achieve at least fastness rating 3 after 3,000 abrasion cycles. The assessment is to be carried out using the grey scale according to DIN EN 20105-A02.
Flat woven fabric
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when three threads in a flat woven fabric are completely destroyed
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 12,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Chenille
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when three threads in a chenille fabric are completely destroyed or when the chenille layer is completely abraded (whichever occurs first).
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 12,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Knitted fabric
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when a hole appears in a knitted fabric (without pile) due to a completely destroyed thread.
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 12,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Loop pile fabric
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when the pile is completely abraded in a loop pile fabric
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 25,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Cut pile fabric
Destruction of the sample is usually achieved when
• in a pile fabric the pile layer is completely abraded without destroying the warp/weft threads
• in a knitted pile fabric, the pile layer of 5 mm2 is completely abraded without destroying the warp/weft threads.
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 25,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Flocking material
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when the fibre layer of the flocking material is completely abraded or detached without the carrier fabric being frayed or abraded.
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 25,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Non-woven fabric
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when a hole is observed in a non-woven fabric. A hole means that the top layer is abraded in such a way that a different looking layer or the base fabric is visible
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 25,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
Napped fabric
Destruction of the test sample is usually achieved when the fibre layer of a napped fabric is completely abraded.
Assessment according to DIN EN 14465
DGM requirement: ≥ 12,000 Martindale cycles
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12947-2
6.8.5. Pill formation
Must be determined for flat woven fabrics, knitted fabrics (without pile), loop pile fabrics and non-woven fabrics.
A scouring agent fabric made of wool (according to DIN EN ISO 12947-1) must be used and the category must be determined after 2,000 Martindale cycles
DGM plus requirement At least grade 4
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 12945-2
6.8.6. Light fastness
For light colours, a tolerance of a fastness rating of 0.5 applies.
DGM plus requirement: At least grade 6 to 7
Testing according to DIN EN ISO 106 B02 Procedure 2 (Procedure 3 may be used for quality control purposes.)
6.8.7. Rubbing fastness dry
DGM requirement: At least fastness rating 3 to 4
Testing according to DIN EN ISO-105 X12
6.8.8. Rubbing fastness wet
DGM requirement: At least fastness rating 3
Testing according to DIN EN ISO-105 X12
6.8.9. Colour difference
Permissible colour difference between the supplied material and the sample material according to greyscale (DIN EN 20105- A02)
Upholstery fabrics:
DGM requirement: At least level 4
Micro fibre fabrics:
DGM requirement: At least level 3 to 4
6.8.10. Flammability
Cigarette test according to DIN EN 1021-1 must be passed.
Testing according to DIN EN 1021-1
6.9. Construction and processing
6.9.1.
Uneven floors
In order to counter uneven floors, use height adjusters for tables.
6.9.2. Edges / narrow surfaces / joints
• Edges must be free of tears and must be broken or rounded evenly along their entire length.
• Edges of standing surfaces must be chamfered or fitted with glides.
• Joints on outdoor wooden furniture must be tight and must not be visually obtrusive.
Visual and dimensional inspection, haptic test if necessary
6.9.3. Glue and adhesive joints
Visible glue and adhesive joints must be closed. They must not show any excess glue at the points visible in the position of use.
Visual inspection, functionality test
6.10. Strength and durability
6.10.1.
Outdoor chairs
After testing, there must be no breaks or other damage affecting the functionality and safety of the product.
Testing based on the current EN standards for outdoor furniture – DIN EN 581 and CEN TR 581-4 (withdrawn)
6.10.2. Outdoor tables
Requirements according to the current EN standards.
Testing based on the current EN standards for outdoor furniture – DIN EN 581 and CEN TR 581-4 (withdrawn)
6.11.3. Outdoor recliners
After testing, there must be no breaks or other damage affecting the functionality and safety of the product
Testing based on the current EN standards for outdoor furniture – DIN EN 581
7. Safety
In accordance with the Product Safety Act (ProdSG) the following applies:
A product may only be made available on the market if it does not endanger the safety and health of persons or other legal interests listed in the legal ordinances pursuant to Article 3 when used as intended or in a foreseeable manner.
Accessible frame edges must be designed in such a way that there is no risk of injury when the outdoor furniture is used as intended.
The requirements according to DIN EN 581 must be observed.
8. Labelling
Furniture that complies with these Quality and Testing Regulations and which has been awarded the quality mark can be labelled with the quality mark shown below:
RAL-G 430 / 11
The implementation regulations of the Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel apply exclusively to the use of the quality mark
9. Amendments
Amendments to these Quality and Testing Regulations require the prior written consent of RAL to become effective. They come into force after a reasonable period of time after they have been announced by the Executive Board
10. Implementing Regulations for the Award and Use of the Quality Mark of the Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel e. V.
10.1. Assessment basis
The assessment basis for the quality mark consists of the Quality and Testing Regulations for Furniture. It is amended and further developed in line with technical progress.
10.2. Awarding the quality mark
11.2.1 The Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel e. V. awards the right to use the quality mark for furniture to manufacturers of quality furniture upon application.
11.2.2 The application for the award of the quality mark must be submitted in writing to the office of the Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel e. V., Friedrichstraße 13-15 in 90762 Fürth. The application must be accompanied by a list of the products which the applicant wishes to have approved for quality assurance as well as a legally binding signed certificate of commitment (Sample 1).
11.2.3 This application is reviewed by the Quality Committee. The Quality Association commissions a neutral testing institute to carry out the initial testing. The test result is sent in writing to the Quality Committee, the applicant, and the Executive Board of the Quality Association. In addition, the Quality Committee may arrange for a factory inspection to be carried out by authorised inspectors or inspectors authorised by the testing institute. The applicant shall bear the costs for this as well as the cost for the inspection of the products. The Quality Association may authorise the testing institute to request an advance payment for inspection costs.
11.2.4 If the result of the inspection is positive, the Executive Board of the Quality Association awards the quality mark to the applicant on the recommendation of the Quality Committee. The award is certified (Sample 2). If the result of the inspection is negative, the Quality Committee will defer the application. It must give reasons for the deferral in writing.
10.3. Use of the quality mark
11.3.1 Users of the mark may only use the quality mark for products that comply with the Quality and Testing Regulations.
11.3.2 The Quality Association has the sole right to have marking materials of the quality mark produced for all purposes (embossing stamps, printing blocks, matrixes, seal stamps, rubber stamps, etc.) and to issue them or have them issued to the users of the quality mark or to grant permission for their production and to specify the type of application in more detail.
11.3.3 The Executive Board may issue special regulations for the use of the quality mark in advertising on brochures, offers, order confirmations and delivery bills, etc., in order to maintain fair competition and prevent misuse of the quality mark.
11.3.4 The right to use the quality mark ends in case of death, opening of insolvency proceedings, liquidation, withdrawal or if the user of the quality mark renounces the right to use the quality mark by legally signed declaration to the Managing Director by registered letter on a date determined by the user.
11.3.5 If the right to use the quality mark has been legally withdrawn, the award certificate and all means of labelling with the quality mark must be returned; there is no entitlement to reimbursement. The same applies if the right to use the quality mark has otherwise expired.
10.4. Quality Control
11.4.1 The Quality Association is entitled and obliged to monitor compliance with the Quality and Testing Regulations as well as the lawful and proper use of the quality mark.
11.4.2 Every user of the quality mark must take the necessary precautions to ensure that the products bearing the quality mark comply with the Quality and Testing Regulations. Careful records must be kept of the required internal quality control procedures. In addition, every user of the quality mark shall subject these products to the monitoring tests arranged by the Quality Association to the extent and frequency in accordance with the requirements of the Quality and Testing Regulations and shall bear the testing and transport costs incurred as a result.
11.4.3 The Quality Committee commissions neutral testing institutes (officially recognised material testing institutes or equivalent testing institutes) to carry out the monitoring tests and makes the necessary agreements with them.
11.4.4 Assessors authorised by the neutral testing institutes may carry out monitoring tests at the company of the quality mark user at any time without prior notification up to twice a year, inspect the records of the company's own inspections and visit the company during operating hours. Products requested by the assessor as test pieces are to be handed over immediately. The assessor is entitled to dismantle finished products during the inspection. If the test is carried out elsewhere, the test pieces must be clearly marked by the assessor immediately upon removal. Products of the quality mark user can also be taken from the trade.
11.4.5 The appointed testing institute determines the test results independently of the bodies of the Quality Association. The testing institute prepares a test report for each test, a copy of which is sent to the Quality Association and to the quality mark user in question. Further dissemination of the test result is prohibited.
11.4.6 In case of a negative test result or in case of complaints about products of the quality mark user, the Quality Committee has the test repeated.
11.4.7 In the case of inspections requested from the Quality Association by third parties, the inspection costs are borne by the complainant in the event of an unjustified complaint, and by the quality mark user in the event of a justified complaint.
10.5. Sanctioning of violations
11.5.1 If the Quality Committee identifies deficiencies in quality assurance, it proposes sanctioning measures to the Executive Board of the Quality Association. Depending on the severity of the violation, the Board may:
11.5.1.1 Issue an instruction and/or a warning against the user of the quality mark,
11.5.1.2 Order an increase in the number of monitoring tests to be carried out for a certain period of time,
11.5.1.3 Impose the payment of a contractual penalty depending on the extent of the breach in question, up to EUR 10,000 in favour of the Quality Association,
11.5.1.4 Withdraw the right to use the quality mark temporarily or permanently.
11.5.2 If deviations from the Quality and Testing Regulations or an infringement of the conditions of use of the quality mark are detected during inspection of the products of the quality mark user, an instruction or warning will be issued. Depending on circumstances, the latter is issued in conjunction with an ordered increase in the number of monitoring tests to be carried out and/or by the imposition of a contractual penalty. The contractual penalty is to be paid to Deutsche Gütegemeinschaft Möbel e. V. within 14 days after the decision has become legally binding.
11.5.3 The right to use the quality mark will be withdrawn temporarily or permanently if the Quality and Testing Regulations or the conditions for use of the quality mark have been repeatedly violated, or if the quality mark has been misused, or if a deliberate violation of the Quality and Testing Regulations has been proven, or if the quality mark user otherwise grossly violates the quality assurance through their conduct.
11.5.4 Should a member use the quality mark without authorisation or allow a third party to affix it to their products or permit the third party to use the quality mark in any other way, a contractual penalty of up to EUR 10,000 will be due for each individual case. Any legal action ensuing from such behaviour will not be affected by the issuing of said penalties.
11.5.5 A penalty as laid out under Section 5.1 may also be issued if the quality mark user delays or obstructs immediate monitoring tests as described under Section 4.
11.5.6 The affected party must be heard before any measures are taken. Before the right to use the quality mark is withdrawn from a quality mark user, the affected party must be given the opportunity to make a statement within a period of 4 weeks.
11.5.7 In urgent cases, the Chairman of the Quality Association may provisionally prohibit a quality mark user from using the quality mark with immediate effect. Such an order must be confirmed or rescinded by the Executive Board of the Quality Association within 14 days.
11.5.8 The duty of the Quality Association to intervene against impairment of the use of the quality mark and in the event of misuse of the quality mark also obliges the users of the quality mark under trademark law to notify the Managing Director of the Quality Association without delay of any violations of the conditions of use of the quality mark and any cases of misuse of the quality mark of which they become aware and to submit substantiating documents so that the violation can be prosecuted in an appropriate manner. Failure to do so shall be punished in accordance with Section 5.1.
11.5.9 Measures taken by the Quality Association to protect the quality mark within the meaning of these provisions shall not affect the right of quality mark users to assert any claims for compensation for damage directly incurred by them as a result of infringement under civil law.
10.6. Objection
11.6.1 The quality mark user may lodge an appeal with the Quality Committee against a penalty notice in accordance with Section 5.1 within 4 weeks of notification of the notice. A decision on the appeal must be made within 4 weeks. The appeal has a suspensive effect; however, in the event of an acute risk of misleading the market, the Quality Committee may provisionally confirm a sanctioning measure in accordance with Section 5.1.4 even before deciding on the appeal.
11.6.2 If the objection is rejected, the complainant may take legal action in accordance with Section 11 of the Articles of Association within 4 weeks of being served with the decision rejecting the complaint.
10.7. Reinstatement of usage rights
If the right to use the quality mark has been withdrawn, it may be re-awarded after three months at the earliest. The procedure is determined in accordance with Section 2. However, the Executive Board of the Quality Association may impose additional conditions.
10.8. Amendments
These Implementing Regulations together with samples (declaration of membership, award certificate) are recognised by RAL. Amendments, including those of an editorial nature, require the prior written consent of RAL to become effective. They come into force after being announced by the Executive Board within a reasonable period determined by the Executive Board of the Quality Association.
