Starting Sunday, New York has prohibited the sale or offering for sale of new upholstered furniture and mattresses containing 'covered flame retardants,' as well as electronic displays with organohalogen flame retardants.
Photo: Dreamstime.
Flame retardants are chemicals used in furniture, mattresses, electronics, and other products to prevent or slow the spread of fires. However, many of these chemicals are linked to negative health impacts in both humans and animals. Additionally, flame retardants are resistant to decomposition and can persist in the environment and homes for many years.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) stated that this ban aims to prevent these chemicals from entering homes and the broader environment in New York.
Electronic displays, which include devices like computer monitors, televisions, eBook readers, portable DVD players with screens, notebook computers, tablets, and all-in-one computers, are also covered under this prohibition as they may contain the targeted flame retardants.
The DEC advises those involved in the sale of new upholstered furniture, mattresses, or electronic displays to verify with manufacturers or suppliers to ensure that these products do not intentionally contain flame retardant chemicals in order to comply with the new law.
Source: www.fingerlakesdailynews.com