Recently, the State Administration for Market Regulation of China approved and released the national standard “General Technical Requirements for Nap Desks and Chairs for Primary and Secondary School Students” (GB/T 46016-2025), which will be officially implemented on February 1, 2026. Based on the physical development characteristics of students, this standard makes regulations for the entire process from design, production, inspection to use, making nap desks and chairs more comfortable, safe, and durable.
The standard requires that the shape and size of nap desks and chairs should take into account both learning and nap comfort. During class, the height of primary school desks should be between 455mm and 730mm, and the height of middle school desks should be between 565mm and 790mm. The seat surface width of the chair should be at least 360mm to ensure a proper sitting posture. During nap time, the chair can be unfolded into a lying position, with an overall length of not less than 1050mm. The backrest can be reclined to more than 135°. The width and length of the headrest should be at least 180mm and 100mm respectively, and the place for resting legs should be no less than 250mm in width and 100mm in length, so that students can stretch their bodies and have a good sleep. The space under the desk also has its particulars. The height difference between the clear space under the primary school desk and the seat surface should not be less than 110mm, and for middle school, it should not be less than 150mm. This allows legs to move freely and prevents discomfort caused by body curling during nap time.
The standard makes strict regulations on the materials, performance, and structure of nap desks and chairs. In terms of materials, it is required that plastic parts such as the desktop and chair surface should be impact resistant and aging resistant. The surface paint film should withstand water, moisture, and friction. If the desktop is stained with ink, stamp pad ink, or similar substances, it can be wiped clean with an ordinary eraser. In terms of structure and durability, it is required that in the nap state, the chair can withstand multiple weight tests. The hook can hold items weighing 5kg without damage, the leg rest component can be used 20,000 times without breaking, and functions such as adjustment and folding can still be used normally after 10,000 times.
The standard clarifies the quality assurance requirements for the entire chain from factory to use of nap desks and chairs. Before leaving the factory, each batch of products must be sampled to check items such as appearance, size, and structural safety to prevent unqualified products from entering the campus. If there are major changes in the product’s structure, materials, or processes, or if production resumes after a half-year suspension, a comprehensive inspection is required to ensure that the core performance meets the standards. At the same time, the product should be marked with information such as the name, specification, materials, and manufacturer. The user manual should include information on installation, maintenance, and safety reminders to facilitate correct use and maintenance by schools and parents.