We are already in the middle of September, Amerindian Heritage Month. This month is set aside to showcase the contributions of our Amerindian People and it is most appropriate to feature one of the standards that relates to a product manufactured primarily by the Amerindian Community. This national standard is the Specification for indigenous furniture (bamboo, rattan, wicker and nibbi); a standard which can be used to fortify the consistent manufacture of these kinds of indigenous furniture.
Our indigenous people are well known for their fine arts and crafting abilities which have allowed them to produce classy and unique pieces of furniture from plant materials in their surroundings. Locally, and even in many other parts of the world, these pieces of furniture are in high demand and are well priced, especially when they are produced according to recognised standards.
The Specification for indigenous furniture is a CARICOM Standard which was adopted by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). The standard was developed to benefit manufacturers by the harmonization of requirements for the manufacture of various types of furniture, suitable for both domestic and commercial use.
The standard covers material requirements, which are selected for rattan, wicker and nibbi furniture and these shall be characterized by lightness, flexibility, durability and smoothness with no hair-like strands hanging from them. Based on the standard, indigenous furniture shall be constructed with good workmanship components which shall be of quality and uniformity; and the furniture shall remain stable in an upright position when empty.
In relation to the finish of indigenous furniture, the standard requires that all surfaces be sanded smooth and all exposed edges and corners eased to avoid injuries during use. Furniture shall be covered with materials such lacquer, wax, oil and polyester. This significantly enhances the appearance of the various pieces.
Like all other manufactured products, labelling of indigenous furniture is also necessary. Prominent labels shall be securely affixed to furniture and shall include information such as common name or types of furniture, manufacturer code or mark, country of origin and types of materials used in the manufacture.
Finally, as it relates to the specifications of the standard, requirements for sampling and performance testing are outlined. These are necessary requirements for the monitoring of the product and for determining the durability and strength of pieces produced.
The GNBS encourages all manufacturers of indigenous furniture, including those from our Amerindian communities to implement the standard requirements in their manufacturing processes, especially if furniture are for commerce. The standard is available at the GNBS and following its requirements can guarantee the production of quality indigenous furniture.
