​Report into current and alternative flame retardant technologies for furniture and furnishings

Cause for concern over the potential toxicity of some flame retardant chemicals has prompted the UK's largest furniture association to investigate further.

Findings from research into current and alternative flame retardant technologies used in furniture and furnishings has been released in a report entitled ‘Current and alternative flame retardants for use in upholstered furniture' by FIRA International on behalf of the Furniture Industry Research Association.

The Furniture Industry Research Association provides invaluable technical support to the entire furniture supply chain and funds projects for the benefit of the industry.

"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. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in prosecution, fines, and potential recall of non-compliant product already placed on the market. The potential toxicity of some flame retardants has been cause for concern which prompted the Association to investigate situation with current flame retardants and to look at possible alternatives." explains Phil Reynolds, Director at the Furniture Industry Research Association.

Consumers are also becoming increasingly aware of the presence of, and necessity for, chemicals in goods and the effects that these chemicals might have on human health and the environment. However, the same consumers would also expect that the products that they purchase meet the required standards in terms of fire safety.

The research aims to address a knowledge gap in which FR chemicals are currently used in products sold in the UK and to look for alternative technologies for when chemicals are reviewed for the potential environmental impacts, which can result in their restriction.

It answers the following key questions being asked by the furniture industry:

Why and how do we use flame retardant chemicals? What types of flame retardant chemicals are available for use? What flame retardant chemicals have been banned or restricted in use? What alternative flame retardant technologies are available?

Phil continued: "The flame retardant chemical industry is working hard to look for alternative chemicals and is actively involved in updating the furniture industry with progress through forums such as FRETWORK which work together with all sectors of the supply chain to keep abreast of issues. We hope that this research and our continuing work in this area will assist the furniture and chemical industries to work together to find solutions to issues as they arise."

A summary of the findings from the project is available to download here The document can be accessed free of charge by members of the Furniture Industry Research Association.

For more information, please contact Customer Services on 01438 777 700 or email info@fira.co.uk.