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Information Regarding the Draft Standard for Safer Bedding Products – TB 604

The Bureau studied the flammability of filled bedding products including comforters, pillows, and mattress pads and found that these products significantly contribute to mattress fires. In collaboration with the federal government, industry, and commercial laboratories, we are developing Technical Bulletin 604 (TB 604) in order to address this hazard.

As drafted, TB 604 would be a performance-based standard that would not prescribe the use of flame-retardant chemicals, pre-determined methods, or specific materials. We encourage the industry to use innovative methods and products to increase fire resistance without compromising the environment. All proposed methods to comply with TB 604 must strictly adhere to state and federal laws.

Our goal is to increase consumer protection through the development of an enforceable standard that is achievable, based on scientific principles, and economically feasible.

To obtain a copy of the current draft TB 604 or to sign up for email updates regarding the draft standard, please click on the following links below.

• TB 604 Task Force Meeting Agenda -- November 7, 2007
• DRAFT October 2007 Technical Bulletin 604 Test Procedure and Apparatus for the Flame Resistance of Filled Bedclothing
• Sign Up to Receive E-mail for TB 604 Rulemaking Public Hearing Notice and Other Information

Comforter Flammability Comparison

For a picture presentation of the difference in flammability between a comforter commonly found in homes and a fire-resistant comforter, please click here to see the "Comforter and Mattress Flammability Comparison". The presentation shows photos from burn demonstration videos taken at the Bureau's testing facility.