16 CFR Part 1610——Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles
Scope of Application of the Regulations:
Applicable Products: This standard applies to all textiles and fabrics primarily used in the manufacture of clothing, including finished garments. It also applies to children’s sleepwear that meets the definitions of “infant clothing” or “tight-fitting clothing” (for products that do not meet these definitions, more stringent standards for the flammability of children’s sleepwear, such as 16 CFR Part 1615 or 1616, must be followed).
Products Not Applicable:Certain product categories are explicitly excluded by regulations:
Hats that do not cover the neck,face,or shoulders.
Gloves that are not longer than 14 inches and are not attached to any other piece of clothing.
Footwear that does not include sock components and is not attached to any other clothing item.
A lining material situated between the outer layer and the inner layer.
Classification of flammability for textiles:
Based on the test results(the time it took for the flame to spread and the condition of the base fabric burning),the textiles were classified into the following three categories:
Grade | Category Name | Flat-weave fabric. | Velvet fabric. | Conclusion |
Class 1 | Normal combustion. | Average flame spread time≥3.5 seconds. | Average flame spread time>7.0 seconds;or 2.Surface flashover occurs within 0-7 seconds,but the substrate is not ignited or melted. | Acceptable;can be used for clothing. |
Class 2 | Moderate combustion. | Not applicable | The average time it takes for the flame to spread ranges from 4.0 to 7.0 seconds,and the base material is either ignited or melted. | Use with caution.This product is only suitable for velvet fabrics. |
Class 3 | Rapid and intense combustion. | Average flame spread time<3.5 seconds. | Average flame spread time<4.0 seconds,and the base fabric has been ignited or melted. | It is prohibited from being used and must not be employed for clothing purposes. |
Compliance verification and certificate requirements:
Adult clothing:Manufacturers or importers must implement a“reasonable and representative testing program”and issue a general certificate of conformity(GCC).The CPSC has the discretionary authority to enforce GCC requirements for adult clothing that qualifies for the aforementioned exemptions,but GCCs are still required for non-exempt adult clothing.
Children’s clothing:As it is a product intended for children,in addition to meeting Part 1610,it must also:
Testing conducted by a third-party laboratory accredited by the CPSC.
Issue a Certificate of Compliance for Children’s Products(CPC).
Meet the additional requirements of the CPSIA regarding lead content(surface coating≤90 ppm,base material≤100 ppm),phthalates,and tracking labels.However,untreated or adulterated standard dyed or uncolored textiles are generally exempt from lead content testing.