The GSA test standard formerly know as FNEW-269E Performance Test Method For Intensive Use Chairs has been adjusted slightly and made into a federal specification.  The new test standard will be called Federal 834a.

The two most major changes to the test method are the cycle requirement for Cyclic Back and Back Tilt Mechanism Fatigue Test (now test 5.1), and the pass/fail criteria for the Cyclic Fatigue Test of Swivel Bearings (now test 5.7).  The cycle requirement for the Back Tilt Mechanism Fatigue Test was reduced from 1,000,000 to 500,000 cycles.  The pass/fail criteria for the Cyclic Fatigue Test of Swivel Bearings was reduced from 125 to 75 inch pounds.

In addition, tolerances for weights, measurements, cycle rates, and cycles  similar to the BIFMA test standards, were added to improve the overall accuracy and repeatability of the tests.

This standard is free to the public, and currently available on the GSA website.  Click this link to download: Federal 834a