ISPA Addresses Upcoming Implementation Of California TB603 Flammability Standards

Furniture World Magazine

The International Sleep Products Association (ISPA), in partnership with the Sleep Products Safety Council (SPSC), plans a special Dec. 7, 2004, SHOPtalk seminar at the Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Airport hotel to help mattress manufacturers comply with California TB603. The regulation, which sets new flammability standards for residential mattresses, goes into effect Jan. 1, 2005, and will impact the vast majority of western United States bedding manufacturers and national companies. This is the fifth SHOPtalk on TB603 that ISPA and the SPSC have hosted this year and the third such workshop in California. The comprehensive ISPA Flammability SHOPtalk: California TB603-Compliance and Manufacturing Solutions seminar includes a variety of experts knowledgeable about the new standard and its potential implications for the mattress industry. Gordon Damant, SPSC technical spokesperson, will set the stage regarding key elements of the standard. SPSC Chair Al Klancnik of Serta, Inc. will discuss real-life issues relevant to efficient production of compliant products from a manufacturer's perspective. Representatives from the California Bureau of Home Furnishings will bring clarity to some of the perplexing aspects of the standard and update the industry on their strengthened enforcement program. Margaret Neily of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission will offer new information about the agency's proposed federal standard for mattresses and plans for addressing bedclothes. “The California SHOPtalk is designed to provide TB603 compliance and manufacturing solutions for mattress manufacturers as well as offer an opportunity to see first-hand the various fire resistant products being developed by suppliers,” notes ISPA Chairman Tom LeDuc of Spring Air West. The latest in fire resistant materials and technologies will be displayed on tabletops throughout the event. Suppliers with exhibits will be present to answer questions and explain how their materials will aid manufacturers in complying with the new regulation. Hotel reservations can be made by calling 1-310-642-7500 or 1-888-315-3700, and identifying yourself as a participant in the ISPA SHOPtalk. Reservations must be made by Nov. 23, 2004, in order to receive the special discounted room rate of $109. For further details on the SHOPtalk or to register, please visit www.sleepproducts.org/shoptalk/flammability. Established in 1915 to encourage laws that regulate the use of sanitary materials in mattresses, the International Sleep Products Association, www.sleepproducts.org, represents more than 800 mattress manufacturers and their component suppliers throughout the world. ISPA is dedicated to protecting the growth, profitability and stature of the mattress manufacturing industry. The Sleep Products Safety Council, www.safesleep.org, is a non-profit organization established in 1986 by the mattress industry. SPSC's mission is to provide consumer safety information, support research, and promote activities aimed at reducing hazards associated with mattresses and other sleep products.