Chlorinated Phosphate Flame Retardants

• Polyurethane foam in a variety of products, including:
  • Upholstered furniture in homes and offices.
  • Some car seats for infants and children.
  • Motor vehicle seats, carpet padding, and foam blocks at gymnastic studios.
• Some building materials, such as insulation and plastic pipes.
• Some fabrics used in curtains, costumes, and camping tents.
• Some children’s products made from plastic, foam, or synthetic rubber, such as soft toys and arts and crafts supplies.
• Paints, varnishes, and adhesives.
• Dust in homes, offices, and cars that contain products with these flame retardants.

Scientists are still studying how chlorinated phosphate flame retardants may affect people’s health.  Some chlorinated phosphates:

• May interfere with the body’s natural hormones.
• May decrease fertility.
• May affect the developing fetus.
• May increase cancer risk.

• Because these flame retardants can come out of products and collect in dust:
  • Wash your and your child’s hands often, especially before preparing or eating food.
  • Clean your floors regularly, using a wet mop or HEPA vacuum cleaner if possible, and use a damp cloth to dust.
• Look for furniture that has “TB117-2013” labels, the new California flammability standard that can be met without using chemical flame retardants.  The label should indicate if the furniture contains flame retardants or not.
• Avoid new and used furniture with “TB-117” labels, which is more likely to contain chemical flame retardants. 
• Ask for children’s products that do not contain flame retardants. Contact the manufacturer if the seller is unsure whether a product contains flame retardants.
• Replace upholstered furniture that is torn or has crumbling foam.
• If you install new carpet, avoid using padding made from recycled or scrap foam.