August 23, 2021 | Furniture Concepts
CAL 133
In particular CAL 133 requires that furniture be manufactured with fire barriers that will prevent the spread of flames.
- CAL 133 requires that seating pieces be fire tested to the standards defined in the legislation as a completely assembled piece.
- Components are not individually tested.
- A chair is CAL 133 is typically required in any public facility that contains 10 or more seating pieces.
- Contract or commercial furniture manufacturers are very mindful of CAL 133.
- Due to the endless combination of frames and fabrics (there are tens of thousands of fabrics available) not all items can be CAL 133 tested at the expense of the manufacturer.
- Flammability certifications are all laboratory-performed and are therefore not inexpensive.
Some fire codes recognize the expense of CAL 133 compliance and instead
require CAL 117 compliance. CAL 117, or California Technical Bulletin 117,
tests foam flammability but not the flammability of the fully assembled
piece. It is always essential to consult with local fire officials for your
specific requirements.
- While requirements may vary it is a guarantee that only contract providers can offer CAL 133 or CAL 117 compliant furniture.
- Retail furniture sellers are not required to adhere to such stringent flammability codes and therefore are not the right place to buy for any public use space.
Topics: Flammability Standards, CAL 133
