Flammability

• California Technical Bulletin 117 -- TB 117
• California Technical Bulletin 133 -- TB 133

TB 117 is a series of individual tests involving materials used in seating, such as a test for foam, a test for fabric, etc.

TB133, unlike other tests requires that a fully upholstered seating unit, not just its components, must pass a full scale open flame burn test. TB133 recreates conditions typical of real fires and it is by far the most difficult and comprehensive flammability test.

TB133 was passed as a standard for safe seating in high risk areas such as nursing homes, healthcare facilities, prisons, hotels, motels, auditoriums, etc. Very simply, when seating complies with TB133 it will save lives. That is the best reason of all to test.

Because TB133 is becoming an industry standard for high risk - public spaces, and because it is law in several states and cities, it is important to realize that the only way to meet the standard is to pass the test. This involves burning an actual seating unit, upholstered in the same fabric used with the same construction materials.

How Does the TB 133 Test Work?

Using an upholstered piece of seating, an ignition source such as a calibrated gas burner is placed 1" above the seat and 2" from the back of the seat. The burners are then ignited for 80 seconds, and four things are measured:

1. Carbon monoxide concentration: maximum allowance: 1000 parts per million for 5 minutes
2. Smoke opacity (density of smoke):
   metered particles allowance, 75%
3. Temperature rise at two locations:
   -- in front, at 4 ft: maximum 50º increase
   -- at ceiling, 8 ft.: maximum 200º increase
4. Quantity of combustion
   -- weight loss: allowance, 3 pounds

In 1996 we sent a chair in the OPT4^TM; Series to U.S. Testing for TB133 burn tests. No flame barrier, no fabric. The pictures and test results say it all.

SGS U.S. Testing Company Inc.