CAL 117 vs. CAL 133: Which Fire Safety Standard Is Best for Group Homes?
Fire safety is a critical consideration for group homes, where the safety and well-being of residents are the top priorities. Choosing the correct fire safety standard for furniture in these environments can significantly impact the home’s safety. With multiple standards available, understanding the differences between them is essential for making an informed decision. The most common standards are CAL 117 and CAL 133, designed to reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. This article will explore these two standards in detail, comparing them to help group home administrators determine which is best suited for their needs.
Understanding CAL 117
CAL 117, also known as the California Technical Bulletin 117, is a fire safety standard primarily focused on the flammability of materials used in furniture. Introduced in the 1970s, it was one of the earliest attempts to establish a fire resistance baseline in upholstered furniture. The standard requires that furniture materials, such as foam, fabric, and other padding, resist ignition when exposed to a small open flame for a short period.
“CAL 117 led to the widespread use of flame-retardant chemicals in furniture. A study found that 85% of couches purchased in the U.S. between 1984 and 2010 contained harmful flame retardants.”
CAL 117 Requirements
Under CAL 117, the focus is on the resistance of individual materials to ignition. The standard mandates that materials must not ignite easily and should self-extinguish when removing the flame source. This standard is applied mainly to the internal furniture components, such as foam padding, which is tested to ensure it meets the required resistance levels.
“Tip: When purchasing CAL 117 compliant furniture, it’s important to verify that all internal components, not just the visible upholstery, meet the standard. This ensures comprehensive protection.”
CAL 117 Testing
The testing process for CAL 117 involves exposing the furniture materials to a small flame for a specific period. The material’s reaction, such as whether it ignites or self-extinguishes, determines its compliance with the standard. This testing is typically conducted in a controlled laboratory setting, and manufacturers must provide documentation proving their materials meet the standard.
“Note: CAL 117 testing is less stringent compared to other standards, making it more accessible for a wider range of furniture products. However, this also means that the level of fire resistance provided is somewhat limited.”
Understanding CAL 133
CAL 133, or the California Technical Bulletin 133, is a more rigorous fire safety standard than CAL 117. Developed in response to the growing concern over the flammability of furniture in public spaces, CAL 133 requires that the entire furniture piece, not just individual components, meet stringent fire resistance criteria. This standard was introduced in the 1980s and is particularly relevant for environments with higher fire risk, such as group homes, hospitals, and dormitories.
“CAL 133 was introduced to address CAL 117’s limitations by focusing on the fire performance of the entire furniture piece. This offers a more accurate assessment of real-world fire behavior. Learn more about CAL 133 to understand its importance.”
CAL 133 Requirements
The requirements of CAL 133 are more comprehensive, focusing on the performance of the complete furniture piece under fire conditions. Unlike CAL 117, which tests individual materials, CAL 133 evaluates how the entire piece of furniture, including upholstery, foam, and other components, performs when exposed to a significant flame source.
“Tip: For group homes with residents who may have limited mobility, CAL 133 compliant furniture is a safer choice due to its higher fire resistance, which can provide valuable extra time in an emergency.”
CAL 133 Testing
The testing process for CAL 133 is more involved than CAL 117. It includes full-scale tests where a complete piece of furniture is exposed to a more significant flame source in a controlled environment. The goal is to simulate real-world fire scenarios, assessing how quickly the fire spreads, the heat released, and the smoke produced. Only furniture that meets these rigorous criteria is certified as CAL 133 compliant.
“Note: The comprehensive nature of CAL 133 testing makes it one of the most reliable indicators of furniture safety in fire-prone environments. However, it also means that CAL 133 compliant furniture is typically more expensive due to the cost of testing and certification.”
Key Differences Between CAL 117 and CAL 133
The primary difference between CAL 117 and CAL 133 lies in the scope and intensity of the testing procedures. CAL 117 focuses on the flammability of individual materials, while CAL 133 evaluates the fire performance of the entire furniture piece. This difference makes CAL 133 a more comprehensive standard, particularly suited for environments where fire safety is of utmost concern.
“Insight: Choosing between CAL 117 and CAL 133 should be based on the specific needs and risk factors of the group home. While CAL 117 may suffice in low-risk environments, CAL 133 offers a higher level of protection, essential for high-risk areas.”
Testing Rigor
CAL 117’s testing is less rigorous, focusing on the ignition resistance of materials, whereas CAL 133’s full-scale testing simulates real-life fire scenarios. This makes CAL 133 a more reliable indicator of how furniture will perform in an actual fire, providing better protection in high-risk environments.
“Tip: Consider the specific fire risks in your group home when choosing a standard. For example, if the home has a history of fire-related incidents, investing in CAL 133 compliant furniture could be a crucial safety measure.”
Compliance Costs
Compliance with CAL 133 is generally more expensive than CAL 117 due to the comprehensive testing required. However, this investment can be justified by the enhanced safety and potential reduction in fire-related incidents, which could save lives and reduce liability.
| Cost Factor | CAL 117 | CAL 133 |
| Testing and Certification | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| Material Costs | $50,000 | $60,000 |
| Manufacturing Process Changes | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Total Costs | $75,000 | $110,000 |
Fire Safety Performance
CAL 133-compliant furniture generally offers superior fire safety performance compared to CAL 117. This is because CAL 133 considers the behavior of the entire furniture piece, ensuring that all components work together to minimize fire risk.
Pros and Cons of CAL 117 for Group Homes
Pros of CAL 117
CAL 117-compliant furniture is generally less expensive than CAL 133, making it more accessible for group homes operating on a tight budget. The standard is widely recognized and provides a basic level of fire protection, which may be sufficient for low-risk environments.
“Tip: CAL 117 compliant furniture can be a good choice for group homes with a lower fire risk profile, where budget constraints are a significant concern.”
Cons of CAL 117
The main drawback of CAL 117 is its limited fire resistance compared to CAL 133. Since the standard only tests individual materials, it may not provide adequate protection in environments with higher fire risks, such as group homes with residents who require more care.
One example of CAL 117’s application is in group homes with lower fire risks, such as those with fewer residents and extensive fire prevention measures in place. CAL 117-compliant furniture can reasonably balance safety and cost in these settings.
“Insight: According to industry data, many group homes with minimal fire risk successfully use CAL 117 compliant furniture without compromising resident safety, making it a viable option for similar settings.”
Pros and Cons of CAL 133 for Group Homes
Pros of CAL 133
The most significant advantage of CAL 133-compliant furniture is its superior fire resistance, which provides enhanced protection for residents and staff. This higher standard can be precious in group homes with residents who may have difficulty evacuating quickly during a fire.
Cons of CAL 133
The primary disadvantage of CAL 133 is its cost. Due to the comprehensive testing and certification required, CAL 133-compliant furniture is typically more expensive than CAL 117. Additionally, the stricter requirements may limit the availability of furniture options.
CAL 133 is often used in environments where fire safety is paramount, such as hospitals and nursing homes. In these settings, the enhanced fire resistance provided by CAL 133-compliant furniture has proven crucial in preventing the spread of fires and protecting vulnerable populations.
Which Standard Is Best for Group Homes?
Factors to Consider
When choosing between CAL 117 and CAL 133, group homes must consider various factors, including the facility’s fire risk profile, the residents’ needs, and the available budget. High-risk environments, such as those with residents who have limited mobility, may benefit more from the enhanced protection offered by CAL 133. At the same time, CAL 117 may be sufficient for lower-risk settings.
“Tip: Conduct a thorough risk assessment of your group home to determine the most appropriate fire safety standard. Consider factors like resident mobility, fire prevention systems, and fire-related incident risks. Learn more about CAL 117 and CAL 133 standards to ensure compliance.”
Decision-Making Tips
Administrators should weigh the benefits of enhanced safety against the costs associated with compliance. While CAL 133 offers superior fire protection, it may only be necessary for some group homes. Conversely, choosing CAL 117 for a high-risk environment could leave residents vulnerable to a fire.
Industry trends indicate a growing preference for CAL 133 in high-risk group homes, particularly in states with strict fire safety regulations. However, CAL 117 remains a popular choice for facilities with lower fire risk profiles, demonstrating that both standards have their place depending on the specific circumstances.
Furniture Concepts: Your Trusted Partner in Fire-Safe Furniture Solutions
At Furniture Concepts, we understand that the safety of your group home residents is your top priority. As a leading furniture wholesaler, we take pride in offering a wide range of CAL 117 and CAL 133-compliant furniture designed to meet the unique needs of group homes. To ensure that they fulfill the strictest fire safety regulations, we thoroughly test all of our products, providing peace of mind that your environment is as safe as possible.
Here’s a closer look at some of our featured fire-safe products:
Endurance Square Top Table
The Endurance Square Top Table is designed with durability and safety in mind. Constructed from high-quality materials, this table is built to witstand the rigors of daily use in group homes and similar environments. It fully complies with CAL 117 standards, ensuring it meets the necessary fire resistance criteria. This table not only offers functionality but also contributes to the overall safety of your facility.
Solstice Molded Plastic Bed
The Solstice Molded Plastic Bed is a perfect blend of safety and comfort. Made from molded plastic, this bed is highly durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for group homes. It meets CAL 133 standards, ensuring that it offers superior fire resistance. This bed is designed to minimize fire risk while providing a comfortable sleeping environment for residents.
Oval Arm Chair
The Oval Arm Chair combines style with safety. This chair features an elegant design while adhering to CAL 117 fire safety standards. Its upholstery is treated to resist ignition, providing a safer seating option for group homes. The removable cushions make it easy to clean and maintain, adding to its practicality in a high-use environment.
Parker Sofa with Removable Seat Deck
The Parker Sofa is designed for both comfort and safety. It features a removable seat deck, making it easy to clean and maintain. The sofa meets CAL 117 compliance standards, providing the necessary fire resistance. This product is ideal for common areas in group homes where durability and safety are essential.
Whether you’re looking for cost-effective solutions with CAL 117 or seeking the highest level of protection with CAL 133, we have the expertise and selection to help you make the right choice for your facility. We believe in partnering with our clients to create safer, more comfortable living spaces, and Our committed staff is available to assist you at every turn.
Conclusion
Both CAL 117 and CAL 133 play essential roles in ensuring fire safety in group homes. CAL 117 offers a cost-effective solution for environments with lower fire risks, providing elemental fire resistance for individual furniture materials. On the other hand, CAL 133 provides a higher level of protection through comprehensive testing of the entire furniture piece, making it ideal for high-risk environments. Ready to elevate your group home’s fire safety? Contact us at Furniture Concepts today to explore our selection of compliant furniture and get personalized recommendations tailored to your needs.