In the realm of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) projects for outdoor furniture, a common and crucial question arises: which party is responsible for obtaining the necessary safety certifications? The answer is not universal but is primarily defined by the specific contractual agreement between the OEM manufacturer and the buying company (the client or brand).

Typically, the OEM manufacturer possesses the technical capability and facility certifications to conduct required tests and initiate the certification process. They are responsible for ensuring the product is manufactured to meet the specified safety standards (such as ANSI/BIFMA in North America, EN standards in Europe, or AS/NZS in Australia). However, the formal responsibility and obligation to secure the final certification often lies with the buying company. The client usually owns the product design and brand, and they are the entity bringing the product to market, thus bearing ultimate liability.

The practical workflow involves clear contractual delineation. The buying company must explicitly state the target market and required certifications in the project brief. The OEM manufacturer then advises on feasibility, provides test samples from their production line, and assists in liaising with accredited third-party testing laboratories. The buying company typically contracts and pays the lab directly for the certification service. Ultimately, while the manufacturer ensures compliance in production, the brand is accountable for proving compliance to retailers and end-consumers. A collaborative approach, with clear terms outlined in the Master Service Agreement (MSA), is essential to avoid compliance gaps, ensure market access, and mitigate product liability risks.