The use of a key fire retardant chemical in upholstery could be in doubt, depending the outcome of a Government investigation.

The UK Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Competent Authority, part of the Health and Safety Executive is looking into scientific research that decaBDE may degrade and form substances that may be harmful. This may result in the use of the substance becoming restricted, or being classed as a 'Substance of Very High Concern' (SVHC).

The chemical is an essential fire retardant used for treating textiles made from synthetic fibres, and fibre mixes such as polyester. Without such a fire retardant it would be very difficult for polyester and polyester blends to be made compliant with the UK's stringent fire safety legislation. According to FIRA: ‘at present there is no real alternative to the use of decaBDE that is as effective in both performance and cost. Listing the chemical as a SVHC would cause a number of problems.

Firstly it is likely that sourcing the chemical will become much more difficult. Secondly the use of the chemical as a fire retardant may have to be communicated throughout the supply chain, and additionally any waste materials both in the manufacturing supply chain, or post consumer waste, will have to enter discrete waste disposal channels.’

The research association warns that the loss of decaBDE without a suitable replacement could jeopardise the ability of furniture manufacturers being able to satisfy the requirements of the flammability regulations.

‘Whilst the industry is firmly committed to protecting the environment and safeguarding human health, it should be remembered that the [regulations] Have been estimated to save over 50 lives per annum, prevent over 750 injuries and save the economy over £140 million.
FIRA recommends that any assessment of decaBDE should balance the risks against the benefits to ensure that the maximum safety to the consumer can be ensured.’

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