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Written question asked by Baroness Berger (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 August 2026. It was answered by Baroness Sherlock (Labour) on Wednesday, 29 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.


Health Hazards: Fire Resistant Materials

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the health risks to upholsterers and furniture sector workers from the handling of flame retardant treated materials.

Answer

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recognised the risks to textile workers who routinely handle finished fabrics, including those treated with fire-resistant finishes. HSE has produced a specific guidance page on its website which covers both the initial manufacture and any secondary processing of finished fabrics (such as upholstery). The guidance page can be found here: https://www.hse.gov.uk/textiles/fabric-finishes.htm.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL2283
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Chemicals Health hazards Furniture Skilled workers Fire resistant materials
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk