The central government has issued a new directive requiring all furniture in public spaces, including sofas and chairs, be made from fireproof materials. This decision, aimed at enhancing public safety, will come into effect on October 1, 2024. The new rules will apply to a wide range of public places, including movie theatres, restaurants, schools, colleges, hospitals, places of worship and museums.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set the guidelines for ensuring that all public seating and furniture are constructed from fire-resistant materials. This mandate will cover public venues such as offices, airports, restaurants, shopping complexes, religious sites, museums, hospitals, and dining halls. 

Additionally, any curtains used in these public places must also be made from fire-resistant upholstery fabrics.

This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to prevent tragic fire incidents and ensure safety for the public. 

The directive also specifies that upholstery (work on furniture including fabric, padding, webbing, and springs) for chairs and sofas must meet fireproof standards. The BIS has established these requirements to enhance fire safety across public spaces, and non-compliance will result in penalties under Section 11 of the BIS Act, 2016.

It will be enforced for imported items as well. 

Moreover,manufacturers will receive a grace period until March 2025 to comply with the new standards. The government is implementing these measures to improve fire safety and protect public lives and property.

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