THURROCK Council’s trading standards officers have prevented a consignment of mattresses which proved to be flammable reaching the public.
The 55 mattresses – from Karachi in Pakistan – were destined for a business in Essex, and were imported through the London Gateway Port in Thurrock.
A sample was sent to a laboratory in West Yorkshire which found it was easily flammable and difficult to extinguish. The mattress was also tested with a cigarette to check whether that too would set it on fire – it passed that test.
Mattresses, sofas and cushions supplied in the UK must comply with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations 1988 in relation to flammability and labelling.
Cllr Jane Pothecary, Thurrock Council’s cabinet member for public protection, said: “Yet again our trading standards staff have prevented a potentially dangerous import from entering the country.
“We have fire safety rules for a reason. A blazing mattress can kill.”
She added: “With the cooler nights at this time of year it is also important for people to make sure things like electric blankets are properly tested for safety.
“Once again the council’s trading standards team is offering to test electric blankets for safety and even if you had yours tested last year, it is prudent to have it checked again.”
The council’s free of charge service will see all electric blankets supplied returned to their owners if they pass the test. Those blankets that fail will be destroyed.
If you have an electric blanket that you would like tested, please place it in a large bag, with the collection form completed and attached to your bag.
Blankets can be taken to any of the following drop off points between now and 28 October. They should be placed in a large bag, with the collection form completed and attached.
Civic Offices, New Road, Grays, RM17 6SL
Tilbury Library, Civic Square, RM18 8AD
Corringham Library, St John’s Way, SS17 7LJ
Chadwell Information Centre, Brentwood Road, RM16 4JP
South Ockendon Centre, Derry Ave, RM15 5DX
