In plain English: Type B assesses how a representative curtain fabric or assembly behaves when exposed to a defined flame while mounted vertically. The criteria address flame or hole spread to the specimen edges and the separation of flaming debris.
“Fire retardant” does not mean “fireproof.” A curtain meeting a flammability requirement is not non-combustible and is not the same thing as an active fire-curtain barrier designed to provide fire resistance or smoke control.
01 · Scope
What does BS 5867-2 cover?
The current BSI listing describes BS 5867-2:2008 as the specification covering flammability requirements for fabrics and fabric assemblies used to make non-domestic curtains, drapes and window blinds. It also covers finished articles, including combinations of curtains and linings.
This detail matters. A result for one face fabric should not automatically be assumed to cover a lined, interlined or otherwise different finished curtain. Multi-layer constructions need evidence representative of the combination in which they are used.
- Stage and theatre curtains
- School and village-hall drapes
- Hotel and hospitality curtains
- Office and public-building window treatments
- Fabric composition and construction
- Linings and multiple layers
- Coatings and previous finishes
- The correct specialist product and application rate
Primary reference: BSI Knowledge — BS 5867-2:2008. The standard itself should be consulted where formal specification or testing decisions are required.
02 · Test method
How does the Type B test work?
Representative specimens are prepared and conditioned, mounted vertically and exposed to the specified ignition source. For Type B, a defined propane flame is applied for 15 seconds. Specimens are assessed in both fabric directions because the warp and weft can behave differently.
- 01Identify the construction
The sample must represent the fabric, lining and other relevant layers used in the finished curtain.
- 02Complete applicable preparation
The standard considers performance before and, where applicable, after specified cleansing or wetting procedures.
- 03Mount and expose
Conditioned specimens are mounted vertically and exposed to the defined flame for the prescribed duration.
- 04Record the behaviour
Flame spread, hole formation and any separation of flaming debris are assessed against the Type B criteria.
Type B pass criteria
- The flame does not reach an edge of the specimen.
- A hole formed by the flame does not reach an edge.
- No flaming debris separates from the specimen.
A test result relates to the tested specimen and preparation. It should not be treated as an unlimited guarantee for different fabrics, constructions or later alterations.
03 · Documentation
What does a treatment certificate confirm?
After suitable curtains have been professionally treated, Fire Proofing Ltd issues a Certificate of Fire Retardant Treatment. This is valid formal evidence that the identified items were competently treated to BS 5867 using the specialist treatment system and application process selected for their fabric composition.
The certificate is the document customers need for venue, responsible-person, fire-risk-assessment and insurance records. If an approving body has requested unusual wording, tell us before treatment so it can be addressed correctly.
Different fibres and fabric constructions may require different specialist formulations, concentrations or application rates. An experienced treatment specialist can often identify composition from labels, construction, appearance, handle and practical textile knowledge, then select the appropriate tested product and process. Where composition or suitability remains uncertain, a sample or further evidence may be needed before treatment.
The certificate records the items and location covered by the treatment.
It records the specialist system and professional treatment process used.
Keep it with the venue, property or organisation’s relevant fire-safety documents.
Government guidance describes competence in terms of the necessary skills, experience and knowledge for the work. Fire Proofing Ltd combines more than 35 years of textile-care experience with specialist fire-retardant treatment knowledge to select the appropriate product and process. Sources: HSE — What is competence? and Home Office — Fire Safety Order guidance.
04 · Treatment suitability
Can existing curtains be treated?
Many existing curtains can be treated while hanging, but not every material or installation is suitable. Before quoting, we consider the fabric, coatings, existing finishes, lining construction, condition, colour sensitivity, previous cleaning and access to all surfaces that need treatment.
Useful information for an assessment
- Approximate track width and curtain drop
- Number of curtain pairs or individual drapes
- Known fibre content, lining or blackout construction
- Previous cleaning, waterproofing or stain-resistant finishes
- The exact standard or certificate wording requested
- Site postcode, access constraints and required completion date
- Photographs, if convenient
Cleaning and retreatment
Fire Proofing Ltd certificates state that retreatment is required after five years or five dry-cleaning cycles, whichever occurs first. Water washing can remove many non-durable treatments, and cleaning, alterations or contamination can require earlier reassessment and retreatment. Regular vacuuming helps curtains retain their appearance and can reduce the need for dry cleaning.
05 · Previous work
Curtains in different venue settings
06 · Common questions
BS 5867 questions
Is BS 5867 Part 2 Type B required for public-place curtains?+
Curtains, drapes and blinds used in public and commercial places are required to comply with BS 5867-2. Type B is the normal performance requirement for most public-place curtains, while Type C applies where the higher performance level is specified.
Does treatment make curtains fireproof?+
No. Suitable treatment is intended to improve defined flammability behaviour. It does not make a curtain non-combustible or turn it into a fire-resisting barrier.
Can every curtain fabric be treated to Type B?+
No. Fibre content, coatings, finishes, construction, linings, contamination and colour stability all affect suitability. The complete curtain and the required evidence should be assessed before work is agreed.
What certificate is issued after treatment?+
Fire Proofing Ltd issues a Certificate of Fire Retardant Treatment confirming competent, compliant treatment to BS 5867. It is valid evidence for venue, insurer, responsible-person and fire-safety records.
Can treated curtains be washed?+
Water washing can remove many non-durable treatments. Follow the treatment system’s care instructions and seek advice before cleaning, altering or re-treating curtains.