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Canada: Health Canada updated the industry guide to futon flammability requirements

MARCH 2019 - Relevant for: Softlines

On 28 February 2019, Health Canada published the updated industry guide to futon flammability requirements.¹

This guide provides detailed information about the safety requirements for the futon mattresses ("futons") that are regulated under the Mattresses Regulations², including:

• Flammability requirements for futons

• Summary of the test method

• How chemical flame retardants, futon materials and construction influence the flammability characteristics of futons

• Informing consumers on fire safety.

This industry guide also applies to mattresses in general. However, the Mattress Regulation and this industry guide does not cover:

• mattress pads;

• infant multi-use pads;

• parts of upholstered furniture that may be used for the purpose of being slept on that are not separate mattresses;

• crib, cradle or bassinet mattresses; and

• one-of-a-kind prescription mattresses.

What is futons?

Futon mattresses ("futons") are Japanese-style mattresses that can be rolled up or folded.

What are the flammability requirements for futons under the Mattresses Regulations?

[1] Industry guide to futon flammability requirements (Summary)

[2] Mattresses Regulations