Flammability

Summary of the British Furniture Confederation’s Proposed Revision of Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations

FIRA was informed yesterday that the Government has re-started the consultation into a potential revision of the fire safety regulations for upholstered furniture. FIRA is currently analysing the proposals and will be arranging some workshops to discuss this further and to define the Furniture Industry Research Association’s response to the proposals.

This report investigates the impact of the presence of flame retardants on the furniture industry in relation to the disposal of upholstery and furnishings

The use of flame retardants in furniture and furnishings is of great significance, especially in the UK, where fire safety of upholstery is governed by national legislation. The potential toxicity of some flame retardants has been cause for concern which prompted FIRA to investigate the state of the art and to answer some key questions being asked by the furniture industry.

Advice for upholstery component manufacturers and suppliers to help identify the requirements for different upholstery components

The fire safety of upholstered furniture supplied into the non-domestic market is more complex. It is heavily influenced by the end use of the premises in which the furniture is intended to be used.

Any filling material, whether foam or non-foam, intended for use in furniture, must meet specified ignition tests. This means any material included for the purpose of filling or stuffing the upholstered parts of the furniture.