Australian Carpet Classification Scheme (ACCS)
ACCS Labels
Carpets are classified under the ACCS labelling system according to their durability and appearance retention.
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The yellow and blue labels identify carpets that have been graded for residential use. Residential ratings can have a maximum of six stars. The Star system of rating allows you to quickly decide which carpet is suitable for your needs. |
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The gold and black labels identify carpets graded for contract or commercial use. Contract ratings can have a maximum of four stars. Some carpets will carry both Residential and Contract gradings. Be sure to look for the numbered ACCS label – these carpets have been tested by NATA accredited laboratories and assessed by the ACCS Panel of carpet experts. Beware of untested claims of carpet’s suitability for different uses. |
Carpets are classified under the ACCS labelling system according to their durability and appearance retention.
The classification is determined using technical data supplied by manufacturers and results from test conducted by independent (NATA or equivalent) laboratories .
In determining the ACCS end-use classification, the overriding criterion is the appearance retention properties of the carpet. Appearance retention assessment is reflected in both the objective scoring system (81 out of 100 points) and assessment (the remaining 19 points). Carpets submitted to the ACCS must also meet minimum standards for a range of construction and performance properties before they will be graded.
Excellent correlations exist between the classifications awarded by the ACCS, Fernmark and Woolmark /Woolmark Blend. The classifications awarded for products rated by all Schemes are closely monitored.
Environmental Certification Scheme (ECS)
An Environmental Certification Scheme (ECS) for carpet as an extension of the Australian Carpet Classification Scheme (ACCS) has been established. The ECS introduces three new technical criteria covering Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, noise reduction and thermal insulation properties that relate to environmental performance.
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The technical criteria cover:
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The VOC criteria were set taking into account the results of a series of trials on Australian made carpets by CETEC, an independent testing organization. The ECS criteria are more stringent than those of the US Carpet and Rug Institute’s synthetic carpet based 'Green Label Plus' Scheme.
ECS VOC emission limits have been set at, or lower than, the equivalent Green Label Plus limits, and additional VOC’s have been added to the CRI list of 13 ‘chemicals of concern.’
The acoustic criteria for impact and reverberation noise reduction were determined taking into account the results of CSIRO testing on a range of residential and commercial carpets. The selection of the ECS performance criteria for thermal insulation was based on existing research.
Overall, the ECS performance criteria are more stringent than other standards set for environmental certification in the Australasian marketplace.