TB117-2013 Statement

G&T Industries, Inc. does not produce or ship any flexible polyurethane foam products to California. However, it is important for our customers to understand that the polyurethane foams we provide are compliant with California’s revised TB117-2013 standard that takes effect January 1, 2015.

According to the Polyurethane Foam Association (guidance bulletin dated 2/19/2014):

“TB117-2013 is a flammability standard for upholstered furniture. TB117-2013 mandates that, beginning January 1, 2015, all filling materials, including flexible polyurethane foam (FPF) that can reasonably be expected to be used in or as an article of furniture, or as a mattress pad without covering, in California must meet the smolder-resistant requirements of the TB117-2013 Resilient Filling Material Test. The new standard replaces TB117, which since 1975 has mandated the use of an open flame test for FPF.”

Regarding the use of flame retardant chemicals, TB117-2013 does not prohibit their use nor does it require them. Many of our suppliers are working on new chemistry with a goal to remove flame retardant chemicals from their products, but the vast majority of foams G&T ships today contain flame retardant chemicals. Please note that there is more for furniture manufacturers than changing to non-FR foams. You have additional responsibilities beyond foam in complying with TB117-2013. Your actions items include classification of cover fabrics, use of barrier materials when Class 2 fabrics or non-complying resilient filling materials are used, and employing new labeling.

Companies that manufacture or import upholstered furniture for sale in California bear the sole responsibility for compliance to the new standard TB117-2013. For specifics we recommend that you contact your legal counsel and/or the California Department of Consumer Affairs.