In the fast-paced world of hospitality design, visual appeal, brand storytelling, and guest comfort often steal the spotlight. But there’s another critical factor that should never be overlooked – fire safety.
As a seating manufacturer, we’re seeing more fabrics are being specified for hospitality venues, that do not comply with Crib 5 fire safety regulations.
While we understand the excitement of discovering the perfect texture, colour, or pattern for a design scheme, it’s critical that these aesthetic decisions don’t come at the expense of fire safety, legal compliance, and guest protection. If a fabric isn’t CRIB 5 compliant – or hasn’t been treated to meet that standard – it simply cannot be used on contract seating in public spaces like hotels, bars, and restaurants.
What is CRIB 5 and Why does it Matter?
CRIB 5, or Ignition Source 5 refers to a UK fire safety standard, part of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, designed to assess a material’s resistance to ignition. It is the minimum requirement for upholstered furniture used in non-domestic (contract) settings.
The Crib 5 test replicates a realistic ignition source by using a wooden crib structure, set alight to see how a fabric performs under prolonged flame exposure. To pass, the upholstered material must not ignite, smoulder, or spread flame beyond a set limit.
For non-domestic venues like hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and other hospitality environments – Crib 5 compliance isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Why Designers must Prioritise CRIB 5 in Hospitality Projects
1. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Any seating used in public hospitality environments must comply with contract-grade fire regulations. Using domestic/non-compliant fabrics that don’t meet CRIB 5 regulations can lead to project delays, penalties, or legal action – particularly if the venue is later found non-compliant during inspections or after an incident.
2. Insurance and Liability Risks
In the unfortunate case of a fire, non-CRIB 5 upholstery could lead to invalidated insurance policies. Worse still, the designer or specifier may be held partially liable for specifying unsafe or non-compliant materials.
3. Protecting Guest Safety
Hotels, restaurants, and bars have a duty of care to the public. Seating in these spaces needs to be as safe as it is stylish. CRIB 5 fabrics give vital protection, reducing the risk of rapid flame spread and giving people more time to evacuate in an emergency.
4. Design Mistakes Cost Time and Money
Ordering non-compliant fabrics, even unintentionally, can be a costly mistake. Reupholstering, fire-treating post-installation, or even removing non-conforming items altogether can delay openings and damage your relationship with clients and contractors.
Debunking the Myths: CRIB 5 ≠ Compromise
There’s no shortage of stunning, on-trend, CRIB 5-compliant fabrics available on the market today – from rich velvets and contemporary weaves to sustainable options and leathers. Additionally, many fabrics can be FR-treated to meet CRIB 5 requirements, provided the treatment is professionally applied and certified.
The key is to ensure that fire safety is considered from the start, not as an afterthought once the project and design is approved.
Our Advice to Designers and Specifiers:
Confirm CRIB 5 compliance before specifying upholstery fabrics for hospitality venues.
If using the client’s own material, ensure it has been tested and certified or is suitable for treatment.
Request fire certification from your supplier or manufacturer for all specified fabrics.
Ensure that any fire treatment doesn’t compromise the fabric’s durability, finish, or care requirements.
Communicate early with your manufacturer if unsure – we’re here to help!
Final Thoughts
In hospitality design, attention to detail is everything – and that includes what can’t be seen at first glance. A beautifully designed venue means nothing if it isn’t safe.
As manufacturers, we take our responsibility seriously – and we urge designers to do the same.
CRIB 5 isn’t a restriction – it’s a safeguard. By making fire-safe specifications part of your design process, you not only protect your clients and their guests – you also protect your project’s integrity, reputation, and future.
If in doubt, talk to your supplier or manufacturer before finalising fabric selections. We’re always happy to check compliance and offer suitable alternatives that meet both your vision and the regulations.
