There are two distinct types of furniture labelling, each serving a specific purpose. This section of our guide explains the differences between display labels and permanent labels.
Display labelling is required to indicate the ignition resistance of each item of furniture and needs to be attached to all new furniture in a visible location at the point of sale. It is intended to provide guidance for consumers when making a purchase. Such a label is not required for mattresses, bed-bases, pillows, scatter cushions, seat pads, loose covers (sold separately from the furniture) and stretch covers.
The display label need not be retained after purchase and is usually discarded.
Permanent labels conforming to The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988 must also be present on all items of furniture on sale. The relevant label should be affixed to the furniture in such a way that it will stay attached to the item and remain visible if the furniture is subsequently sold second hand. This enables enforcement officers to confirm that materials used in the item comply with the regulations.
Once again, there is a distinction when it comes to mattresses, divans and bed bases. Whilst these items are required to carry permanent labels, the requirements for these are defined in a separate document, BS 7177:2008.
There are a variety of label styles available to manufacturers as detailed in the furniture and furnishings regulations. In relation to permanent labels, manufacturers can choose to provide either labels giving full information about the furniture or a shorter version giving only the minimum information about the furniture.
The legislation is designed to give clear guidance on the required information, and the available styles of presentation. Even the shorter format labels must provide the key information needed when making a purchasing choice.
Further details and specific examples of labels can be found on www.firesafe.org.uk.
Reviewed: 01/10/2019 (doc:106 V1.0). Our articles are reviewed regularly. However, any changes made to standards or legislation following the review date will not have been considered. Please note that we provide abridged, easy-to-understand guidance. To make detailed decisions about your fire safety provisions, you might require further advice or need to consult the full standards and legislation.
