The Australian Carpet Classification Scheme (ACCS), is a national carpet grading scheme covering all types of carpet and all carpet fibres.
Graded carpets carry distinctive labels featuring a star system that provides guidance on the likely appearance retention and performance properties of the carpet. The more stars the better quality and performance. The Star system of rating allows you to quickly decide which carpet is suitable for your needs. ACCS graded carpets must meet minimum standards before they will be graded. These include: colourfastness to water, shampoo and light, extractable matter, tuft anchorage, secondary backing adhesion, fire safety, yarn twist and, when applicable, insect resist treatments.
The yellow and blue labels identify carpets that have been graded for residential use. Residential ratings can have a maximum of six stars.
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.
The green labels identify carpets that have been graded by the Environmental Certification Scheme (ECS). There are four levels of environmental performance with ECS Level 4 being the top grading. For further information on the ECS, please refer to the Environmental section.
When the STAIR graphic appears on the label, it is accompanied by the wording: SUITABLE FOR STAIRS. This indicates that the product is suitable for use on stairs in terms of its durability and appearance retention properties.
Be sure to look for a numbered ACCS label – carpets with these labels have been tested by NATA accredited laboratories and assessed by the ACCS Panel of carpet experts. The Registered Number identifies each graded carpet individually so grading details can be checked and confirmed. Beware of untested claims of carpet’s suitability for different uses.
Residential Carpets 6-star Classification System.
= Residential Light Duty- = Residential Medium Duty
- = Residential Heavy Duty
- = Residential Heavy Duty
- = Residential Extra Heavy Duty
- = Residential Extra Heavy Duty
Location Guidance for ACCS Residential Carpet Grading.
| Description | Trafficking passages* | Minimum Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom with light traffic flow | Less than 500 |  |
| Living room, entertainment area with light to medium traffic flow | Less than 1,500 | |
| Hallway, entertainment area with heavy traffic flow | 1,500 – 2,499 | |
| Hallway, entertainment area with heavy traffic flow | 2,500 – 3,999 | |
| All surface areas with extra heavy traffic flow | 4,000 – 5,500 | |
| All surface areas with extra heavy traffic flow | 4,000 – 5,500 | |
- *A trafficking passage is defined as one person walking through a particular area once.
Click on the link above to view an up-to-date listing of ECS graded carpets.
