Fired up about flame retardants

In September 2010, scientists in San Antonio, Texas, for the 30th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants, developed a fiery statement on a major class of flame-retardant chemicals used in consumer products. Almost 150 scientists from 22 countries raised concerns about the toxicity and effectiveness of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants (BFRs and CFRs), found in upholstered furniture, foam carpet pads, textiles, consumer electronics, airplanes and automobiles. The “San Antonio Statement” says that “BFRs and CFRs can increase fire toxicity and their overall benefit in improving fire safety has not been proven” because the chemicals “can increase the release of carbon monoxide, toxic gases and soot, which are the cause of most fire deaths and injuries.” The signatories ask manufacturers to provide more information about toxicity testing and how BFRs and CFRs are used in consumer products. Read the statement in Environmental Health Perspectives magazine.