FIRA International has opened a newly expanded flammability laboratory within its UKAS accredited facilities in Hertfordshire.
The expansion now gives FIRA International experts four flammability cabinets in which to test domestic and contract furniture, including all types of upholstery, foams, fillings and mattresses.
Speaking on the expansion, Howard James, operations manager of testing services at FIRA International, says: “We’ve been seeing an increase in demand for our testing services since 2017, and decided that the time was right to make a further significant investment in our capabilities. Now this phase of expansion is complete, we’ll be in a stronger position to meet customer demand and support customers with turnaround times by having four flammability cabinets in operation.
“Alongside investing in equipment we’re also investing in our people, recruiting additional testing experts to ensure we make the best use of our additional capability to support our customers.”
Flammability standards which FIRA International are UKAS accredited to test to within their flammability laboratory include:
• BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 Specification for resistance to ignition of mattresses, mattress pads, divans and bed bases
• BS 7176:2007+A1:2011. Specification for resistance to ignition of upholstered furniture for non-domestic seating by testing composites
• The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended)
Alongside the completed flammability expansion, FIRA International are also currently expanding their structures department. This includes additional investment in further machines which test the safety, durability and stability of chairs, tables, beds, cabinets etc. Further details on this programme will be released shortly.
Further details on testing services from FIRA International are available from Enrico Puddu (epuddu@fira.co.uk) on +44 (0)1439 777 615.
