CONTRIBUTION OF UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE TO RESIDENTIAL FIRE RISKS.

The effect of different-intensity ignition sources on the possible contribution of flexible polyurethane foam to the fire risk potential of upholstered furniture is considered. The influence of the filling material, the outer covering, the use of interlayers and the design of the furniture on ignition and burning in laboratory and large-scale tests is studied. From the various upholstery combinations tested the domination effect of outer coverings and interlayers is demonstrated. The importance of the type and combination of upholstery material to the risk of smoldering ignition and flame spread is also shown. Some of the problem in evaluation smoke and toxicity of the combustion products are discussed. Proposals are made for producing improved material combinations which are more resistant to ignition sources of low and medium intensity.