Flame Retardancy Ratings for Stage Curtains and Theatrical Fabrics

Flame Retardancy Ratings

Theatrical Fabric Flame Retardancy Ratings

If you're outfitting a school, theatre or other venue with stage curtains or drapery, fabric flammability should be a number one priority. Federal law requires that any drapery hung in spaces like these meet certain safety requirements, specifically that they are flame retardant. See below for explanations of the various flame ratings.

NFR (Non-Flame Retardant)

This fabric is not flame retardant.

FR (Flame Retardant)

Treated with a flame retardant chemical such that the fabric meets the minimum requirements of flame resistance established by the NFPA 701 Test. The flame retardancy has a life expectancy of one year, but is likely to be effective for much longer. The flame retardance WILL be removed by water washing. Northeast Stage recommends annual testing of the fabric using NFPA 705 Field Test Method for Textiles, as accumulations of airborne dust and oils may diminish the flame resistance of the fabric.

DFR (Durably Flame Retardant)

Meets the minimum requirements of flame resistance established by the NFPA 701 Test. Unlike FR fabrics in which chemical(s) are topically applied, Durably Flame Retardant fabrics use non-water soluble chemical compounds that bind to the fibers, resulting in a flame retardant that typically withstands up to 25 washes (when laundered properly). Northeast Stage recommends annual testing of the fabric using NFPA 705 Field Test Method for Textiles, as accumulations of airborne dust and oil may diminish the flame resistance of the fabric.

IFR (Inherently Flame Retardant)

Meets the minimum requirements of flame resistance established by the NFPA 701 Test. Made with non-combustible elements, this fabric is inherently and permanently flame resistant for the life of the fabric, without the addition of flame retardant chemicals. This flame resistance will NOT wash out. Northeast Stage, however, recommends annual testing of the fabric using the NFPA 705 Field Test Method for Textiles, as accumulations of airborne dust and oils may diminish the flame resistance of the fabric.

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