16 CFR 1610 - Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles Revision

US Regulation, 16 CFR 1610 Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles, has been revised. While the principal requirements of the standard remain the same, the revised version includes modern testing apparatus, as well as updated refurbishing procedures, to reflect current consumer practices. In addition, the new standard has been reorganized and re-written to be more understandable and user-friendly. It also should be noted that the actual test procedure and classification for acceptance has not changed. Bureau Veritas provided support for the development of this standard and monitored the proposed revisions during development. Please contact us directly to review these new changes, or for information on how we can be of assistance.

Overview of Major Changes to the Standard

Definitions Expanded: Definitions have been added for many previously undefined terms, including: plain surface fabric, raised surface fabric, long dimension, refurbishing, sample, and specimen, to name a few. In addition, other definitions have been updated for clarity and scope, including the terms: base burn, flocked fabrics, metallic thread fabrics, embroidery on netted fabrics, burn out fabrics, and narrow fabrics, including leis, fringe, etc. Test Requirements Clarified: The revision references an electro-mechanical tester and provides new equipment diagrams. It also clarifies the testing requirement necessary when additional specimens need to be tested. Refurbishing Procedure: Laundering: Changes to reduce the wash temperature are reflected in the new practice. Also, the method for laundering has been updated to follow AATCC 124-2006. Dry-Cleaning: Due to restrictions in the handling of perchlorethylene in the US, the new procedure for dry-cleaning follows Test Method ASTM D1230, Section 9.2.1.6, Option B (Commercial DC). In addition, clarity is provided as to the type and amount of ballast needed for the dry-cleaning process. Desiccating Procedure: The desiccant referenced is silica gel. Results and Reporting: The new revision provides more precise definitions for burn codes used to report testing results. Effective Date: The revised regulation is effective 180 days after the published final rule which was issued on March 25, 2008. Therefore, the date for compliance is September 22, 2008. Please note: Product that is inventory, or on the store shelf, would be exempt from the revised standard. For More Information: We offer comprehensive quality assurance services for all your softline needs, including compliance assessments for the standard above. For questions or further assistance, please contact Ellen Roaldi at: ellen.roaldi @ us.bureauveritas.com.

Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Inc. (BVCPS) provides the information in this client bulletin as a resource of general information. It does not replace any applicable legal or regulatory requirements and is provided as is. BVCPS will not be liable for any indirect, special, punitive, consequential or other damages (including without limitation lost profits) of any kind in connection with this client bulletin. BVCPS DISCLAIMS ALL REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, IN CONNECTION WITH THIS CLIENT BULLETIN. Copyright 2008 Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

March 2008 08B-134