Outdated UK Furniture Fire Safety Rules Pose Risks, Warns MP
UK furniture fire safety regulations, dating back to 1988, remain unchanged despite warnings from experts. Bob Blackman, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on fire safety, highlighted the absence of a clear plan to update these standards despite ongoing lobbying efforts.
The APPG raised concerns about the presence of flammable substances, including various flame retardants used in foams, fabrics, and backing materials in upholstered furniture. Many of these substances have toxicity or environmental persistence issues, with several being restricted over time. In contrast, Europe has progressively reduced the use of toxic flame retardants in sofas, mattresses, and upholstered furniture over the past 20 to 25 years.
Consumers are at risk of long-term exposure to harmful chemicals when buying secondhand furniture, which often lacks information on contained substances and can remain in use for decades.
The Grenfell Tower fire intensified scrutiny of flame-retardant material testing. Some suppliers allegedly sought higher fire safety ratings than their products warranted, leading the APPG to conclude that current testing methods are not fit for purpose.
Under the Building Safety Act, ministers have the authority to introduce new fire safety rules without primary legislation. However, the industry maintains that tighter standards could increase costs, emphasizing the need for an evidence-based balance.
Additionally, the disposal methods for sofas and mattresses, whether through incineration or recycling, present unknown risks regarding the release of toxic substances. The comparative dangers of incineration versus landfill remain unclear.
Overall, UK chemical restrictions lag behind those in the European Union, and keeping pace is crucial to protecting consumers from toxic chemical flame retardants.
