EN 1023-3:2000 is a European test-methods standard for office furniture screens (workspace partitions). It focuses on evaluating stability and the structural behavior of the screen under defined test conditions.
It is commonly used by manufacturers, QA/QC teams, and test labs to support mechanical safety and performance claims for freestanding or supported screen systems before product release or procurement acceptance. If you are not sure whether EN 1023-3 applies to your screen configuration, talk with our team.
EN 1023-3:2000 — Office furniture – Screens – Part 3: Test methods
EN 1023-3 is the “Part 3” test-methods document within the EN 1023 series for office screens. It provides standardized approaches for checking stability and assessing the screen’s structure in a repeatable, laboratory-style setup.
This standard is typically referenced alongside requirement documents (such as mechanical safety requirements) so that screening products can be tested consistently across different labs and product lines.
Quick definition
EN 1023-3 defines test methods used to evaluate office screens (partitions) for stability and structural performance under specified conditions.
Document type: Test methods standard.
Typical outputs: Pass/fail or observed performance against defined test procedures, plus a test report documenting configuration and results.
What this standard covers
EN 1023-3 is focused on how to run the tests, rather than setting product design requirements. In practice it is used to evaluate whether a screen system stays stable and whether the structure maintains integrity when subjected to prescribed actions during testing.
Core focus areas: Stability-related testing and structure-related testing for office screens.
Why this standard matters in testing
Office screens are used as space dividers and privacy elements, and they may be moved, bumped, or leaned on in service. A consistent test method helps organizations compare designs, qualify changes (materials, connectors, bases), and document performance in a way that is more repeatable than ad-hoc checks.
For buyers and facility planners, test-method alignment helps reduce risk during procurement by making performance documentation easier to interpret across suppliers.
Common materials, product types, or applications covered
EN 1023-3 is generally applied to office screen systems used to divide workspaces, including partitions or room-divider style products used in offices and similar work environments.
Common constructions: Framed panels, upholstered screens, glazed or composite panels, and modular systems where stability depends on bases, feet, interconnections, or support hardware.
Common test or verification workflow
EN 1023-3 testing is usually performed as part of a product qualification or conformity package, often alongside companion requirements and dimensional references within the EN 1023 series.
Common workflow: Define the screen configuration to be tested (including bases, connectors, and any support conditions) → set up the specimen as required → conduct stability-focused and structure-focused test procedures → document observations and results in a test report.
Equipment commonly used for this standard
Because EN 1023-3 is a test-methods document, equipment selection is usually driven by how the standard applies forces, constrains the screen, and measures response during stability and structural checks.
Common equipment families: Force application devices (manual or powered), calibrated force gauges/load cells, weights as applicable, fixtures/support stands to reproduce the screen’s installed condition, and measurement tools for displacement/deflection where needed.
When tests require controlled force application and traceable measurement, a configurable mechanical test frame (often a universal testing machine or a dedicated rig) with appropriate fixturing can simplify repeatability. If you are comparing force ranges, fixtures, or instrumentation for an EN 1023-3 setup, you can request a detailed quote based on your screen size and mounting configuration.
How to read this designation or revision
EN 1023 identifies the European standard series for office furniture screens.
Part 3 indicates the specific document within the series that covers test methods.
Edition date (e.g., “:2000”): The year attached to the designation identifies the published edition. Test setups, required apparatus details, and reporting expectations can depend on the cited edition, so matching the purchase specification or customer requirement to the correct dated version is important.
Related standards, methods, or frameworks
EN 1023-3 is typically used as part of the broader EN 1023 series for office screens.
- EN 1023-1: Dimensions (used to classify or define screen dimensions in the series context).
- EN 1023-2: Mechanical safety requirements (often paired with Part 3 test methods for evaluation).
Get help selecting an EN 1023-3 test setup
If you need to build or upgrade a screen testing capability for EN 1023-3, we can help map your screen configurations to practical force application, fixturing, and measurement options. To discuss your lab workflow and quoting options, contact our team.