Lab reports 93% compliance on TB 117 mattress samples amidst overseas manufacturing concerns

The Bureau of Household Goods and Services Advisory Group convened on November 7, 2019, to discuss recent laboratory testing results and compliance issues related to household goods, particularly focusing on TB 117, CFR 16, and bedding samples.

The meeting began with a report on the laboratory's testing activities from July 1, 2019, to October 30, 2019. During this period, the lab received 42 samples for TB 117, 20 13 tests, with a notable 93 percent passing rate. In contrast, 7 percent of the samples failed. The lab also tested 11 mattress samples, where 78 percent passed the open flame test (CFR 16 33), while 22 percent did not meet the required standards. No insulation samples were received during this timeframe.

Additionally, the lab evaluated 20 bedding samples, all of which passed the tests. However, when reviewing the labels attached to the samples, only 14 percent complied with all requirements. The majority, 56 percent, had minor deficiencies, while 26 percent exhibited moderate deficiencies, and 4 percent had major failures. Minor deficiencies were described as slight deviations from specified standards, while moderate deficiencies involved incorrect component percentages.

A significant finding was that 61 percent of the completed TB 117, 20 13 furniture samples were manufactured overseas, with 32 percent produced in California and 7 percent from other U.S. states. All 9 mattress samples tested were made in the United States. The lab also checked for the presence of AFR (Antimony Flame Retardants) chemicals, revealing that 91 percent of the samples did not contain AFR chemicals, while 9 percent did.

The lab sent 8 samples to the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for AFR testing, with 3 samples cleared and the remaining 5 still undergoing testing. The discussion highlighted concerns regarding the compliance of overseas manufacturers, particularly in relation to AFR chemicals, as most failures in previous years were linked to products made outside the U.S.

Questions from advisory group members focused on the implications of the testing results, particularly regarding the labeling accuracy and the speed of DTSC's testing process. The lab indicated that they had allocated additional funds to increase testing capacity in light of upcoming regulations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored ongoing challenges in ensuring compliance with safety standards for household goods, particularly concerning overseas manufacturing and the presence of harmful chemicals. The Bureau plans to enhance testing efforts to address these issues moving forward.