CPSC Considering New Flammability Testing Exemption for Spandex Fabrics

The Consumer Product Safety Commission seeks comments by June 24 on a potential exemption for spandex from fabric flammability testing requirements. CPSC’s regulations at 16 CFR 1610.1(d) currently list all plain surface fabrics weighing at least 2.6 ounces per square yard, as well as all plain and raised-surface fabrics of acrylic, modacrylic, nylon, olefin, polyester, wool, from flammability testing requirements because they consistently yield acceptable test results under the required standard. CPSC is gathering input on the potential addition of spandex, and in particular data from testing a range of fabric constructions, fabric weights, and fiber blends. CPSC also seeks comments on various changes to the flammability test method itself.