EN 12529:1998

Overview

EN 12529:1998 - Castors and wheels: Castors for furniture - Castors for swivel chairs - Requirements is a European Standard published by CEN that defines the technical requirements, appropriate dimensions and the requirements for testing castors intended for swivel chairs. The standard applies to castors with or without braking devices that are normally used on office and home swivel chairs. National adoptions (for example SIST EN 12529:2000) reproduce the EN 12529:1998 requirements for use in local markets.

Key Topics

• Scope and definitions - Clarifies which types of castors and chair applications are covered and establishes terminology.
• Technical requirements - General performance and construction expectations for castor components, bearings and wheel materials.
• Dimensional requirements - Prescribed or recommended dimensions to ensure compatibility and interchangeability with typical swivel chair fittings.
• Braking device provisions - Requirements that apply when a castor is supplied with an integrated braking mechanism.
• Testing requirements - Defined tests and criteria to demonstrate durability, swivel and roll performance, braking efficacy (if fitted), attachment security and operational safety. (The standard specifies the types of tests and acceptance criteria rather than consumer-level guidance.)
• Marking and documentation - Expectations for labelling, product data and manufacturer information to support safe selection and installation.

Applications

• Manufacturers of castors, wheels and swivel-chair components use EN 12529:1998 to design products that meet European market expectations for safety, fit and function.
• Furniture OEMs and designers reference the standard to specify compatible castors for office and home swivel chairs and to ensure interchangeability.
• Test laboratories and conformity assessors apply the testing requirements to verify product performance and support CE marking or national certification processes.
• Procurement teams and facility managers use the standard to select durable, safe castors for workplaces, public buildings and healthcare environments.
• Regulators and standards bodies rely on EN 12529 as part of the body of furniture safety and components standards.

Related Standards

• EN 12529 is part of the broader family of castors and wheels standards published by CEN. National adoptions (such as SIST EN 12529:2000) reproduce EN 12529:1998 for local use. For complete conformity activities, consult other CEN/CENELEC furniture safety and components standards relevant to office seating and workplace ergonomics.

Keywords: EN 12529:1998, castors for swivel chairs, castors and wheels, castors for furniture, braking devices, testing requirements, dimensions, CEN.