Archived News Article
Westbridge recognised as ‘certified company’ under fire compliance scheme
Westbridge Furniture Design, who manufacture more than 10,000 pieces of upholstery a week have been confirmed as the latest ‘Certified Company’ under the Furniture Industry Research Association’s ‘Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture’.
Three of Westbridge’s UK production sites were assessed during an audit process which the organisation underwent as part of their route to Certified Company status. These sites supply some of the largest retailers including Marks & Spencer, John Lewis Partnership, Next home, key retail park groups and independent retailers.
The audit was centered around ensuring Westbridge have suitable processes and procedures in place to demonstrate due diligence compliance with the UK's Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (FFFSR).
Speaking on their new Certified Company Status, Anthony Pydiah, Senior Quality & Technical Manager, at Westbridge Furniture Design said, “I’m delighted that we have earned this certification of our control systems. It is a reflection of the knowledge and great commitment of our team, coupled with the support of our suppliers, who together ensure that our processes are robust, withstand scrutiny and ultimately protect consumer safety.”
Phil Reynolds, COO of the Furniture Industry Research Association, said “It’s great to welcome Westbridge Furniture Designs to the Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture. They are a key manufacturer within the industry and their processes and procedures are central to protecting consumer safety.
“When put into context that Westbridge carry over 1,200 fabrics and leathers you get a real sense of the size of their operation. Their customers can now be sure that through this Certified Company status Westbridge are demonstrating due diligence and taking all necessary steps to comply with the FFFSR.”
Full details on the Compliance Scheme for the Fire Performance of Upholstered Furniture are available from www.fira.co.uk/compliance and the addition of Westbridge now brings the number of Certified Companies into double figures. Organisations interested in becoming a Certified Company should contact FIRA on info@fira.co.uk or call +44 (0)1438 777 700.
