Flammability Testing Services: Protect Your Customers, Products and Brand

When it comes to upholstered furniture and furnishings, fire safety is both a regulatory requirement and critical responsibility. Failure to meet flammability standards can result in product recalls, reputational damage and significant safety risks for consumers.

We help manufacturers, retailers and suppliers navigate complex fire safety regulations with confidence through our comprehensive flammability testing services. Operating from our UKAS-accredited laboratory in Leicester, we provide the expertise, testing capabilities and certification support needed to bring compliant products to market faster.

Why flammability testing matters

The UK has some of the world's most stringent fire safety regulations for upholstered furniture. As regulations continue to evolve and consumer expectations rise, businesses must demonstrate that their products meet the highest safety standards before they reach the market.

Flammability testing helps you:

• Demonstrate compliance with UK fire safety regulations
• Reduce the risk of costly product recalls
• Protect consumers from fire hazards
• Safeguard your brand reputation
• Gain confidence when placing products on the market

Whether you manufacture, import or supply upholstered furniture, ensuring compliance has never been more important.

Comprehensive testing for furniture, textiles and furnishings

Our Leicester laboratory offers a full range of flammability testing services for furniture, fabrics, foams and fillings, helping businesses comply with key industry standards, including:

• Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended)
• BS 5852: Fire Tests for Upholstered Seating
• BS 7176: Resistance to Ignition of Upholstered Furniture
• BS EN 1021-1 and BS EN 1021-2: Ignition Resistance Testing

Using advanced testing methods and experienced technical specialists, we assess how materials perform when exposed to common ignition sources and real-world fire risks.

Industry-leading testing capabilities

Our services include:

• Cigarette and match testing: assess product resistance against the most common ignition sources found in domestic environments
• Crib testing:  a key requirement for many commercial applications, including hotels, healthcare facilities, offices and public buildings

Every test is supported by detailed reporting, expert interpretation and guidance to help you achieve compliance efficiently and effectively.

Why choose SGS?

As the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, we provide more than just test results. When you work with us, you benefit from:

• UKAS-accredited flammability testing
• Fast turnaround times to support product launch schedules
• Expert technical and regulatory guidance
• Global recognition and trusted certification
• Tailored testing solutions to meet your specific requirements
• Support throughout the product development and compliance journey

Our specialists work closely with manufacturers, retailers and suppliers to ensure products meet the latest fire safety requirements while maintaining quality and performance.

Stay ahead of regulatory change

Fire safety regulations continue to evolve, and businesses must remain proactive to maintain compliance and protect consumers. We help you stay ahead of changing requirements with trusted expertise, industry-leading testing and practical compliance support.

Ready to demonstrate compliance and protect your business?

Whether you are launching a new product, validating existing designs or preparing for regulatory audits, our flammability testing experts are here to help. Partner with us to bring safer products to market with confidence.

Find out more about our services >

Complete our enquiry form today to speak with one of our specialists and discover how our flammability testing services can support your compliance objectives, reduce risk and give you confidence in your products.

Steve Coulson
Business Development Manager
Connectivity & Products
t: +44 (0)151 350 6666