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The correct term to describe the fire performance of a mattress is "ignition resistance".
The ignition resistance requirement for mattresses is given in BS 7177
which sets a standard of cigarette and match resistance for mattresses
sold for domestic use. The test method is according BS 6807 ( S01:cigarette test, S12:match test)
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| S01: Cigerette test |
S12: Match Test |
Contract mattresses are those mattresses which are not for domestic
use.
The performance requirement (ignition resistance) depends on the area
where the mattress is intended to be used and on an assesment of the
premises by a Fire Safety Officer.
In addition to cigarette and match resistant, contract mattresses must
be
ignition resistant to crib 5 (medium hazard) or crib 7 (high hazard).
A
crib is a standard pine wood "bomb fire" which is position on the
mattress
and ignited. A crib 7 is approximately 8 x larger than a crib 5.
There are 3 levels of performance for contract mattresses which are :
Medium Hazard (C53 and C5B3), High hazard (C71) and Very High hazard which is specified as an
ignition source greater than source 7.
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| C53: Medium Hazard |
C5B3: Medium Hazard |
C71: High Hazard |
The fillings used in any mattress must conform to the requirements of
the
Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988.
Generally speaking unless a mattress is to be used in a high risk area
such as Oil Rigs, Mental Institutions, Prisons etc. Medium Hazard
performance will be adequate providing that issues such as fire
detection,
alarm systems, escape routes etc. are adequately taken care of.
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