What is the table’s performance in terms of flame spread ratings?

When evaluating furniture for fire safety, a table's flame spread rating is a critical metric. This rating quantitatively measures how quickly and far flames travel across the material's surface under controlled test conditions. The primary standard for this in North America is the ASTM E84, also known as the Steiner Tunnel Test.

In this test, a sample of the table's surface material is mounted in a horizontal chamber and exposed to a controlled fire at one end. The test measures the progression of the flame front along the sample's length. The results yield a numerical Flame Spread Index (FSI). Materials are classified accordingly: Class A (FSI 0-25) for highly fire-resistant surfaces like certain treated woods or metals, Class B (FSI 26-75) for moderate resistance, and Class C (FSI 76-200) for basic acceptance. Most building and safety codes mandate Class A or B ratings for tables in commercial and institutional settings.

A low flame spread rating indicates that the table material does not readily contribute to fire propagation. This is crucial for slowing down a fire's growth, providing vital time for occupant evacuation and emergency response. It is important to note that this rating assesses surface spread only, not the material's overall combustibility, fuel contribution, or smoke density, which are separate measured factors.

Therefore, specifying tables with a verified, low flame spread rating (particularly Class A) is a fundamental step in risk mitigation for architects, facility managers, and safety-conscious homeowners, ensuring a safer environment by choosing materials designed to resist the rapid spread of flame.