29 March 2024, 09:16
By Furniture News Feb 17, 2017

FIRA working to raise flammability awareness

In order to help manufacturers and suppliers understand their obligations to flammability regulations and standards, FIRA International is hosting a series of flammability courses covering the requirements for upholstered furniture for domestic and contract use.

FIRA’s course aims to provide delegates with a key understanding of the requirements of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended), BS 7176 and BS 7177.

The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended) were designed to ensure that upholstery components and composites used for domestic furniture meet specified ignition resistance levels and are labelled correctly. The Regulations apply throughout the furniture supply chain and cover products including sofas, chairs, upholstered bedsteads, headboards, bean bags, casual seating, cushions, mattresses, toppers and divan bases.

BS 7176 sets out requirements for upholstered products used in the commercial/contract arena, giving guidance on the various hazard levels that may be present.

BS 7177 sets out the requirements for mattresses in both the domestic and commercial/contract sectors.

With this in mind, the FIRA flammability course supports delegates by educating them on:

  • The different schedules within the Regulations
  • Requirements for non-domestic seating, mattresses, toppers and divan bases
  • Product fire regulation (FR) labelling requirements
  • Understanding test reports
  • Traceability of materials used in manufacture/product

Taking place at FIRA’s facilities in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, the one-day course (which includes a visit to the flammability lab) will run throughout the year on 16th March, 12th July and 15th November. Members of the Furniture Industry Research Association can attend for £350+VAT, the cost to non-members is £550+VAT. Tailored in-house training can also be arranged for organisations wanting FIRA to educate their workforce by focusing on specific flammability standards and Regulations pertinent to their business.

The course is suitable for manufacturers, importers, furniture suppliers and retailers - including buyers and technologists. Full details are available from Paul Vaughan on [email protected], 01438 777 606 or via www.fira.co.uk/training.

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