BS 5867-2 for Hotel Curtains: What Specifiers Need to Know

BS 5867-2:2008 sets flammability requirements for fabrics used for curtains, drapes and blinds in non-domestic buildings in the UK, including hotels.

Key points for specifiers

• Use the current edition. The reference is BS 5867-2:2008. Do not rely on an obsolete edition.
• Know the type required. The standard distinguishes Type A, B and C. The project specification or the authority having jurisdiction determines which one applies to a given location.
• Lined assemblies. Where curtains are lined or combined with a blackout lining, check whether the finished combination has been tested rather than only the face fabric.
• Cleaning durability. Ask how the performance is demonstrated after the cleaning method used in the hotel.

BS 5867-2 is not interchangeable with other standards

EN 13773 (curtain classification in Europe), NFPA 701 (USA), DIN 4102-1 B1 (Germany) and M1 (France) are separate systems. A fabric reported to one is not automatically compliant with another. Always name the exact standard, type or class, and destination country in your request.

What to request from a supplier

1. The exact article code and colours.
2. The standard and type required (for example BS 5867-2, with the type specified by the project).
3. The current test report covering that article, and the lining or assembly where relevant.
4. The cleaning method the performance must survive.

Atlas Contract works article by article: send us the fabric reference and requirements, and we will confirm what documentation is available before any compliance statement is made.