Export Compliance Daily is a service of Warren Communications News.

CPSC Considers Revoking/Amending the Cigarette Ignition Flammability Standard for Mattresses/Mattress Pads

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) in order to assess the need for continuing the existing mattress/mattress pad flammability standard, which involves a test to determine the ignition resistance of a mattress or mattress pad when exposed to a lighted cigarette.

Sign up for a free preview to unlock the rest of this article

Export Compliance Daily combines U.S. export control news, foreign border import regulation and policy developments into a single daily information service that reliably informs its trade professional readers about important current issues affecting their operations.

CPSC Considers Revoking Existing Standard Due to New Proposed Standard

The CPSC states that it is considering this action as it recently proposed a new standard that would address open flame ignition of mattresses and mattress and foundation sets. According to the CPSC, several comments have suggested that if and when the new standard takes effect, continuing the cigarette ignition standard would be burdensome and unnecessary. (See ITT's Online Archives or 01/25/05 news, 05012520, for BP summary of this proposed rule.)

Highlights of Possible Outcomes of CPSC's Consideration of Existing Standard

The CPSC explains that possible results of this process of consideration could include: (1) a final rule revoking the existing mattress standard in whole or in part (for example, leaving in place the portion of the standard applicable to mattress pads); (2) a final rule amending the existing mattress standard to eliminate or modify some requirements; or (3) maintain the standard as is.

According to the CPSC, it is seeking comments concerning the risk of injury identified in this ANPR and regulatory alternatives; the submission of an existing standard or portion of a standard as a proposed rule; etc.

(See ITT's Online Archives or 01/25/05 news, 05012515, for BP summary of a CPSC ANPR regarding a flammability standard for mattress pads, sheets, blankets, and other "bed clothes.")

-written comments and submissions must be received by August 22, 2005

CPSC contact - Margaret Neily (301) 504-7530

CPSC ANPR (FR Pub 06/23/05) available athttp://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20051800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2005/pdf/05-12387.pdf