LOFA is pleased to announce that 100% of members offering cushions and cushioned outdoor furniture have now earned LOFAssured accreditation.  This is big news as, further to LOFA testing a number of garden cushions from non-LOFA members, bought from online and high-street stores, 8 of the 10 samples failed. The products were then withdrawn from sale, preventing potentially disastrous incidents.

LOFA’s (Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association) “LOFAssured” initiative ensures that all cushions sold by members comply with current government fire safety regulations.

LOFA has been on a three-year journey after committing to having 100% of relevant members compliant by the end of 2018.  The process saw members put through an educational audit followed by a full audit of all certification, documentation and traceability to ensure only safe, compliant products are offered to the marketplace.  The rigorous process included product testing conducted by an independent test house.

LOFA will now extend the scheme to retailers to help them to ensure they have performed all due diligence in their purchasing processes and are stocking safe, compliant furniture.

The retailer and consumer will be able to clearly identify fully compliant furniture from a LOFAssured member by the LOFAssured swing tag.

For further information on the Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association, call 02392 258844 or visit www.lofa.co.ukand www.lofassured.co.uk.