An investigation into the effects of domestic cleaning on upholstery covering materials backcoated with fire retardants

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of domestic cleaning on upholstery covering materials backcoated with fire retardants. The results are an indicator of the effectiveness of legislative controls for upholstery. A questionnaire and pilot study were used to devise standard treatment procedures reflecting popular domestic cleaning methods. Samples of material were subjected to each treatment procedure followed by testing to the match test in BS 5852:Pt 1: 1979, over filling material specified in Part 1 of Schedule 5 of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988. To provide a standard, materials were also subjected to the water soak procedure in BS 5651: 1978, followed by testing to the match test. The results indicate that domestic cleaning methods affect backcoated fire retardants in such a way that current furniture legislation does not adequately provide for the level of durability required in practice. In addition, evidence was gained via a retail survey which suggests that consumers are not provided with sufficient aftercare information when purchasing new furniture.

Effects of ageing on the fire behaviour of flame-retarded polymers: a review

“…If materials must legally pass the British Standard BS 5852: Part 1 after a water soak procedure (defined by BS 5651: 1978), it is unclear if this treatment is representative of practical domestic cleaning. Therefore, Yates et al have established the most popular methods to remove spills and stains on upholstery and used these procedures to clean various flame‐retarded materials (cotton, acrylic velvet, polyester/cotton). If almost all materials pass the water soak procedure, many of them fail after some domestic cleaning methods including the use of stain removers.…”