In October, new legislation banning organohalogen flame retardants in furniture and bedding became law in Rhode Island. This development happened following testimony before the Senate’s Judiciary Committee in March from toxicologists, researchers, industry representatives, and the firefighting community.

Rhode Island joins 13 other states in banning some types of flame retardants. Supporters of the ban emphasized the hazardous nature of the chemicals, saying they do little to actually minimize fire risk but can be harmful to human health. Furthermore, as highlighted by firefighters in Massachusetts who also supported the bill, firefighters have an elevated cancer risk in part from exposure to toxic chemicals created in fires, including chemicals created when flame retardants burn.

In September, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a decision to warn the public about the dangers of organohalogens in electronics and furniture, especially in baby and toddler products.

Organohalogens are a class of chemicals used in flame retardants. This entire class of chemicals has been associated with serious human health problems.

Health Care Without Harm helps support health care institutions in their efforts to move toward flame retardant-free furniture in their facilities through Practice Greenhealth.

[Source: Providence Journal]