FIRA workshop to explore bariatric seating standards

The first standard for bariatric seating is being devised by experts at FIRA, which is calling on manufacturers, specifiers, clinicians, mobility experts, carers and users to provide valuable insight.

On Wednesday 20th March, FIRA’s experienced consultancy team is holding a stakeholder workshop to provide a forum to discuss an industry standard for the size and strength requirements of bariatric seating, at FIRA’s headquarters in Stevenage. ekonglong office chair

“Currently there are no standards for this type of seating, so our goal is to provide a standard that is workable and reflects reality, which could then be used as the basis for a UK and European standard. We want it to assist users and purchasers to obtain a product that is fit for purpose. We decided to hold a stakeholder workshop as there is nothing like having information from someone who knows about a subject first-hand,” says FIRA project manager Sue Calver.

Without a specific bariatric seating standard, the provision of bariatric seating is approached in a number of different ways, with some manufacturers simply upscaling existing designs. FIRA’s research will include looking at how users get in and out of chairs, where the centre of gravity is and how this affects stability, strength and design.

The event, which starts at 11am and includes lunch, will provide an overview of the project and explain the requirement for assistance from stakeholders.

“We believe that the lack of a standard puts some UK manufacturers at a commercial disadvantage,” says Sue. “By holding this workshop and engaging stakeholders we hope to obtain a full understanding of the issues in the use of bariatric seating, listen to experiences, opinions and suggestions for solutions. We hope you will join us!”