France Proposes Labeling Rules for Formaldehyde Emission Standards in Furniture

Top Quote France has announced its intention to adopt two proposals relating to labeling requirements for formaldehyde emission standards in furniture. If approved, the proposals will begin implementation on January 1, 2020. End Quote
  • (1888PressRelease) March 10, 2017 - France has notified the European Commission (EC) and other Member States of the European Union (EU), in accordance with Directive (EU) 2015/1535, of its intention to adopt two inter-related proposals concerning the labeling of formaldehyde emission standards in furniture products.

    The draft Decree, attached to notification 2017/22/F (France), requires furniture containing wood-based panels to display a label indicating details of the pollutant (formaldehyde) emissions. The requirement applies to furniture whether it is intended exclusively for indoor use or not.

    Labeling must be written in French, as a minimum requirement, and must be attached to either the product or the product's packaging. The proposed law does not apply to second-hand furniture.

    According to the proposals, there will be two effective dates:
    • January 1, 2020 - for furniture except those products placed on the market before this date
    • January 1, 2021 - for furniture placed on the market before January 1, 2020.

    The draft Order, attached to notification 2017/23/F (France), contains important technical information and requirements, including:
    - Allowing formaldehyde emissions to be determined using reference furniture for certain furniture products (Annex II)
    - Providing two methods for testing. These are the Methods 1 (emission test chamber) and 2 (using emissions from wood-based panels). Other officially approved methods may be used as an alternative
    - Four classes of formaldehyde emission standards. These are A+, A, B and C, where A+ is for very low emissions and C is for high emissions
    - Information on the label and its format. The label can be in color or black and white, but must include certain information as detailed in Annex III

    Stakeholders are now advised to ensure that their products comply with the proposed regulations.

    SGS Furniture Labeling Services
    Through a global network of laboratories, SGS provides a range of services, including analytical and consultancy for formaldehyde emissions in wood-based panels and furniture products for France and international markets. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information. Learn more about SGS's Furniture Labeling Services (www.sgs.com/en/consumer-goods-retail/hardgoods/home-furnishings-and-houseware/labeling-verification)

    SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full France Proposes Labeling Requirements for Formaldehyde in Furniture SafeGuardS. (www.sgs.com/en/News/2017/02/SafeGuardS-03117-France-Proposes-Labeling-Requirements-for-Formaldehyde-in-Furniture)

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    For further information contact:
    Hing Wo Tsang
    Global Hardlines Information and Innovation Manager
    Tel:(+852) 2774 7420
    Email: cts.media ( @ ) sgs dot com
    Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines

    About SGS
    SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 90,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,000 offices and laboratories around the world.

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