Standards

The Manhattan carcase meets the requirement of BS6222, Part 2 Level H and more. Proof of our commitment to quality and ‘fitness for purpose’ Manhattan Furniture were the first kitchen company to be awarded the prestigious FIRA Gold Award to test Level H for heavy domestic use.

The significance of this approval is that all aspects of the product are covered. The Gold Award Covers:

STRENGTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

• BS 6222, Part 2, 1997 Level H - specification for strength requirements and methods of test for fitted kitchen units*. *FIRA test methods based on BS 4875 where other suitable methods are not available.
• BS 6222, Part 5 - Specification for strength requirements and methods for test of peninsular units and breakfast bars.
• BS EN 14749 - Domestic & Kitchen storage units and worktops safety requirements

SURFACE FINISHES & ADHESION

• BS 6222, Part 3 1999 - Domestic Kitchen Equipment. 'Performance requirements for durability of surface finishes and adhesion of surfacing and edging material'

PARTICLEBOARD AND MDF

• BS EN 312 2003 Particleboard Specification Type P2 and Type P3 (WPIF Industry Standard)
• BS EN 622 2006 Fibreboards Specifications Part 5 MDF Type MDF (WPIF Industry Standard)

WORKTOPS

• In addition to BS6222 Part 3 1999 (see above)
• BSEN 438 2005 High pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on Thermosetting Resins" Type HGP
• Part 3 Classification and specifications for laminates less than 2 mm thick.
• Part 2 Determination of properties.

(High and low relative tests are applied mainly to solid wood door types).

(Medium and low relative humidity tests apply to worktops).

In addition, FIRA carries out its own tests for Workmanship, Environmental Responsibility, and Ergonomic Assessment.

ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

• FIRA Standard 48 & FIRA Standard 6250 Specification Furniture materials (Interior)

WORKMANSHIP

• FIRA Standard 41 & FIRA Standard 6250 Specification Furniture materials (Interior)
• Subjective assessment of furniture for quality in terms of sharp edges and visual defects

ERGONOMICS

• Dimensions to comply with BS EN 1116, 1996 FTM's and planning accordance with BS 3705 provision of space for domestic kitchen furniture.

AUDITING

• FIRA audits on an annual basis to ensure that the quality and workmanship, features of the Gold Award, are being maintained.