Ensuring Fire Safety and Compliance: SGS Flammability Testing

By SGS United Kingdom Ltd
schedule2nd Apr 25

In today’s market, safety and compliance are more important than ever. With stringent UK fire safety regulations, manufacturers, retailers and suppliers must ensure their products meet legal standards to protect consumers and businesses alike.

As a global leader in testing, inspection and certification, we provide industry-leading flammability testing for upholstered furniture, helping businesses achieve full compliance while maintaining product quality and consumer confidence.

Why flammability testing matters

Fire hazards remain a serious concern, particularly in homes and public spaces. The UK has some of the world’s strictest upholstery flammability regulations, designed to prevent rapid ignition and reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. Compliance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a vital step in ensuring consumer safety and protecting brand reputation.

Our comprehensive UKAS accredited flammability testing services assess upholstered goods against key regulations, including:

The UK Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988
BS 5852:2006: fire test for upholstered seating
BS 7176:2007 and A1:2011: resistance of upholstered furniture to ignition sources
BS EN 1021-1 and 1021-2: ignition resistance of furniture fabrics

By rigorously testing materials, we ensure that your products meet safety standards before reaching consumers, reducing potential fire hazards and liability risks.

Cutting-edge testing for maximum compliance

Our state-of-the-art laboratory in Leicester, UK, uses industry standard test methods to evaluate the fire resistance of upholstery materials, including fabrics, foams and fillings. We assess:

Cigarette and match tests: simulating common ignition sources
Crib 5 testing: required for commercial environments like hotels and offices
Open flame resistance: evaluating how materials react to direct fire exposure

Our expert team provides detailed analysis and certification, ensuring compliance with national and international safety requirements.

Trusted testing and certification

As a globally recognized name in product safety and compliance, our UKAS accredited laboratory and industry specialists offer:

• Reliable, fast testing results to meet production deadlines
• Expert regulatory guidance to navigate complex compliance requirements
• Comprehensive certification services for smooth market access
• Tailored testing solutions to suit specific business needs

With decades of experience in flammability testing, we are committed to helping businesses bring safe, compliant and high-quality products to market.

Stay compliant, stay safe

As fire safety regulations evolve, staying ahead of compliance requirements is essential. We provide the expertise, technology and accreditation needed to ensure your products meet the highest safety standards.

Protect your customers, your brand, and your business with our flammability testing services. To find out more, visit our Flammability web page and download our brochure.

Alternately, please contact:

Steve Coulson
Business Development Manager
Connectivity & Products
t: +44 (0)151 350 6666
e: [email protected]


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