California Technical Bulletin 129, a test method for flammability of mattresses for use in public occupancies, was published in 1992 and has been used voluntarily by manufacturers and procurement officials throughout the United States. In this paper, the results of 126 tests conducted on mattresses that were submitted to the Bureau's laboratory are reviewed. The effects of cover fab rics, filling contents and fire-blocking barriers, both in innerspring and non- innerspring mattresses, are discussed. It is concluded that the technology and materials exist that allow manufacturers to build mattresses that comply with the requirements of this fire test standard.
Stewart, L.J., "The U.S. Home Product Report, 1990-1994, Forms and Types of Materials First Ignited in Fires,"Fire Analysis and Research Division , National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA02269-9101.
2.
McGarry, F., N.A.S.F.M. Petition FP 93-1, to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, to adopt a nationwide, open flame resistance standard for upholstered furniture, originally filed July 28, 1992, accepted for consideration by C.P.S.C, 1993.
3.
"Standard for the Flammability of Mattresses and Mattress Pads," 16 C.F.R. 1632, (formerly DOC FF4-72, amended 1984), Flammable Fabrics Act , administered by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
4.
Martin, A. and C. Schreuder, "Fire Kills Patient Tied to Bed,"Chicago Tribune , January 3, 1997.
5.
Martin, A."Patient Dies in Burning Bed at S. Side Hospital,"Chicago Tribune, January 3, 1997.
6.
"Flammability Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use in High Risk Occupancies," Technical Bulletin 121, Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation, April 1980.
7.
Damant, G.H., S. Nurbakhsh and J.F. Mikami"Fire Tests of Mattresses for College Dormitories,"Bureau of Home Furnishings Report, June 1991 .
8.
Damant, G.H. and S. Nurbakhsh, "Heat Release Test of Mattresses and Bedding Systems,"Bureau of Home Furnishings Report, October 1991 .
