Outdated furniture fire safety rules putting people at risk, MP warns

"A number of chemical groups are used in upholstered furniture mostly as flame retardants applied to foams, fabrics and backing materials to help furniture meet the UK's stringent ignition tests. Many of these substances have been linked to toxicity, persistence in the environment and health concerns, with the use of several restricted over time. Europe has undergone major reforms over the past 20 to 25 years that have significantly reduced the use of toxic flame-retardant chemicals in sofas, mattresses and upholstered furniture."

"While landlords are already required to ensure furnished rental properties meet basic fire safety rules, consumers can still purchase secondhand sofas, armchairs and mattresses without any information about what chemicals they contain. The MP warned these everyday household items are kept for decades, and can present fire and toxicity risks long after they are manufactured. Bob Blackman says secondhand furniture is of particular concern."

UK furniture fire safety standards remain based on 1988 rules, leaving households exposed to flame-retardant chemicals that increase toxic fumes in fires. Chemical groups used as flame retardants are applied to foams, fabrics and backing materials to meet stringent ignition tests. Many of these substances have been linked to toxicity, environmental persistence and health concerns, prompting restrictions over time. Europe reformed standards in recent decades, reducing toxic flame retardants through health and fire-behaviour evidence. Landlords must meet basic rules for furnished rentals, but consumers can buy secondhand furniture without chemical information. Long-lived upholstered items can pose fire and toxicity risks decades after manufacture.

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