CPSC Takes Major Step Toward Reducing Upholstered Furniture Fires.

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M2 PRESSWIRE-4 February 2008-CPSC: CPSC Takes Major Step Toward Reducing Upholstered Furniture Fires(C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

RDATE:01022008

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) voted unanimously (2-0) to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPR) on a new mandatory standard to address residential upholstered furniture fires.

The goal of the proposed standard is to prevent ignition or slow the spread and intensity of upholstered furniture fires. These fires cost the U.S. about $1.6 billion each year. CPSC staff estimates the proposed standard, once fully effective, would prevent an estimated 100 deaths and 130 injuries every year.

"Fires involving upholstered furniture are a leading...