If you own, manage, or operate any type of hotel, guest house, rental property, or accommodation open to the public, you are legally required to provide contract-grade beds, mattresses, and headboards.
These products must comply with UK fire safety legislation designed to significantly reduce the risk of ignition.
What Is Contract Furniture?
The term “contract furniture” refers to furniture — including beds, mattresses, and headboards — that complies with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988.
These regulations apply to furniture supplied in:
Hotels and guest houses
Rental and holiday accommodation
Care homes and student accommodation
Any premises providing sleeping accommodation to the public
British Fire Safety Standards Explained
Contract beds and headboards must meet the requirements of BS 7177:2008, which replaced the earlier BS 7177:1996 standard.
This standard is made up of a series of ignition resistance tests, including:
BS EN 597-1 – Cigarette test
BS EN 597-2 – Match test
For contract use, furniture must also comply with BS 6807, commonly referred to as:
Crib 5
Source 5
This is a higher-level flame retardancy test required for commercial and public settings.
What Does Crib 5 Mean?
Compliance with Crib 5 does not mean the furniture is completely fireproof.
However, it dramatically reduces the risk of ignition and fire spread, making it suitable for use in contract and commercial environments.
How to Identify Contract-Grade Furniture
Furniture that meets Crib 5 requirements is identified by the manufacturer using a blue compliance label.
This label confirms that the product has been tested and meets the required fire safety standards for contract use.
If you require confirmation or documentation for compliance, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.
Need Contract-Compliant Headboards?
If you’re unsure whether a product is suitable for contract use, or you’re purchasing for a commercial environment, our experienced team can advise you.
📞 01722 744616
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