Archived News Article
Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life
The Furniture Industry Research Association Statement on the publication of the Environmental Audit Committee’s 20th report of session 2017 – 19 on Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life
Having participated in both the call for evidence and oral evidence stages of the ‘Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life’ enquiry, the Furniture Industry Research Association welcomes the publication of the report and its calls for action to reduce toxic chemicals in a broad range of consumer products. The furniture industry has been actively seeking publication of the government’s response to the 2016 consultation on the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 for many months and will continue to do so.
The Research Association supports the need for further identification and research into the use of chemicals when considering initial ignition prevention, sustained ignition once a fire has taken hold and the recycling, re-use or disposal of furniture, and believe it is not possible to consider one stream without the other two.
We believe the furniture industry as a whole is supportive of the need to identify and reduce the use of hazardous chemicals whilst maintaining a high level of fire safety, although it is understood from evidence given to the Environmental Audit Committee that there are a vast array of substances in use that we simply do not know enough about. Further independent research is essential to ensure not only that the potential effects of the chemicals in use are fully understood, but also to avoid potential regrettable substitutions.
As an Association we will disseminate the findings and recommendations of the report to our members and look forward to engaging with government in the near future on the way forward.
