Key Points of BS 5852

BS 5852 is the core standard in the UK for the fire performance of upholstered furniture, covering the flame retardant testing requirements for covers and fillings used in padded seating or complete seating units. To ensure products successfully pass certification and meet market access conditions, companies should focus on the following aspects during the application process, including product classification, testing procedures, material compliance, and other key steps.

1. Clarify Product Scope and Classification

Applicable Product Types:

BS 5852 primarily applies to upholstered furniture, including sofas, mattresses, seats, cushions, and other common household items.

Special Scenarios: Outdoor furniture used indoors (e.g., in caravans or as garden furniture) must still comply with the standard.

Exempt Products: Bed linens, carpets, and independent fillings are not within the scope of testing.

2. Strictly Adhere to Test Ignition Sources

The BS 5852 standard categorizes ignition sources for complete upholstered furniture units into 7 types. Customers can select the corresponding ignition source for testing based on the product's usage scenario and compliance requirements.

All component materials of upholstered furniture must be tested according to the ignition sources specified in the standard. Ignition source types include cigarettes and simulated matches, No. 5 wooden cribs, and No. 2 butane flame sources.

3. Exemption Conditions

Natural Fiber Exemption: If natural fibers such as cotton, wool, or linen account for more than 75% of the fabric and have not been treated with flame-retardant coatings, testing for certain ignition sources may be exempted, but interliner material testing is still required.

Filling Requirements: Polyurethane foam must pass Schedule 1 testing; latex foam must pass Part III testing; mixed fillings must be tested separately or in combination.

4. Testing Process

Select a certified laboratory.

Submit an application form: Clearly state product information, test ignition sources, and applicable clauses.

Quotation and contract: The laboratory provides a quotation based on the testing items, followed by contract signing upon confirmation.

Sample submission for testing: Send samples to the laboratory for testing according to standard requirements.