Curtains, Cushions & Bedding - A Hot Topic!
- Sally Tyler
- Mar 16, 2020
- 2 min read
During a recent conversation with a manager of a residential care facility, I was surprised once again that when talking about the home’s soft furnishings that they were not aware that curtains, cushions and bedding must be fire retardant. So often have I heard that care providers are buying from high street retailers and are blissfully unaware of the risks.
It has always concerned me that even fire risk assessment providers and fire officers have often overlooked upholstered furniture, curtains, blinds, cushions and bedding so it’s hardly surprising that the ‘responsible persons’ overseeing the safety of our care homes do not know the UK regulations.
The UK Government FRSA for residential care home document states:
‘Responsibility for complying with the (Fire Safety) Order1 rests with the ‘responsible person’. In a workplace, this is the employer and any other person who may have control of any part of the premises, e.g. the occupier or owner. In all other premises the person or people in control of the premises will be responsible. If there is more than one responsible person in any type of premises (e.g. a multi-occupied complex), all must take all reasonable steps to co-operate and co-ordinate with each other.’
About textiles, they write:
‘Upholstered furniture, soft furnishings and textiles which are easily ignited or have rapid spread of flame characteristics should, where practicable, be avoided in any type of care home and all such products should meet a recognised fire performance standard.’
We also see so many homes, particularly children’s homes where the young people like to personalise their rooms with the likes of Manchester United duvet covers and curtains, however these items are not fire retardant.
The UK Government FRSA document explains:
‘Bedding and sleepwear should also meet recognised standards of fire performance.
Residents should only be allowed to provide items of their own furniture or textiles for their own bedroom if the item meets a fire performance standard similar to those described above, particularly if they share the bedroom with other residents.’
Below are the links to the full documents and further reading can be found easily online.
The issue can be overcome by spraying fabrics with an FR coating however this is washed out easily and has to be repeated.
The good news.. There is a huge selection of inherently FR fabric available. Because of the nature of these fabrics they can be washed over and over and remain compliant. They are inexpensive and come in all colours and patterns to suit your existing décor. I have even overcome the Manchester United issue by choosing red and white curtains and providing the loyal supporter with artwork, mirrors and other club accessories to personalise the room.
For help and advice with ensuring your site is compliant, email sally@stclaire.co.uk or call 01225 790559
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