The UK Government has issued a final call for industry feedback on proposed reforms to fire safety regulations governing upholstered furniture, signalling significant changes for manufacturers and suppliers across the interiors sector.
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The Office for Product Safety & Standards (OPSS) is consulting on updates to the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, with submissions open until 23 June 2026. The review follows a 2025 policy paper outlining plans to modernise the framework while addressing longstanding industry concerns.
Proposals aim to maintain high fire safety standards while reducing reliance on chemical flame retardants, a key issue for furniture producers. Central to the reform is the introduction of new requirements based on a 'smoulder test', alongside more flexible testing methods designed to support product innovation.
The Government also plans to introduce proportionate adjustments to the scope of the regulations, reflecting evolving materials and manufacturing practices.
For the furniture and interiors sector, the changes could reshape product design, compliance processes and material sourcing. Manufacturers are being encouraged to contribute evidence and feedback as policymakers finalise the updated framework, which is expected to influence both safety standards and sustainability practices across the industry.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com
