ACC Comments On Proposal To Change Fire Safety Standards For Upholstered Furniture

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Mar 26, 2013, 02:03 ET

WASHINGTON, March 26, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation concluded its public comment period today on a draft regulation that would, among other changes, eliminate the state's open flame test for upholstered furniture. A recent poll by Tulchin Research shows that California voters overwhelmingly believe flame retardants used in household products like furniture can help slow the spread of fires and protect public safety. In response to these developments, the American Chemistry Council's North American Flame Retardant Alliance released the following statement.

"We have submitted official comments that reflect our concerns that the Bureau is removing an important layer of fire protection that Californians have enjoyed for over 35 years and overstepping its regulatory authority in the process. Since the National Fire Protection Association reports that candles, matches and lighters are still a major cause of upholstered furniture fires, regulators in California should propose a standard that includes an open flame test. Any concerns about flame retardants should be addressed through the new regulatory process that California is developing to evaluate chemicals used in consumer products."

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The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care^®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $760 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is the largest exporting sector in the U.S., accounting for 12 percent of U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council