Fire testing of bed assemblies of reduced flammability

Abstract

Bed assemblies of reduced flammability and suitable for hospital use were evaluated in triplicate, full-scale burning tests in a room corridor test rig. Smoke temperatures, volume and density, and carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and oxygen concentrations were recorded continuously. The composition of the bed assemblies was varied to assess different types of bedding (polyester, modacrylic and flame-retarded cotton), mattresses (DHSS contract and PU barrier foam types) and bed bases (wire and solid supports). A limited test programme was carried out with non-fire-retardant cotton bedding and pillow cases.