Who needs flame-resistant (fire-retardant) artificial plants and trees?
If you're looking to buy artificial plants, trees, flowers, and foliage, there is a wide variety of options available for purchase. However, if you're purchasing for a public building or commercial space, it's important to consider flame-resistant choices. We advise consulting with your fire safety officer before making a decision.
Untreated Artificial Plants
The video below shows the dramatic effects of an artificial cherry blossom being set alight. The blossom is quickly engulfed in flames and a large burning ball is created, which then drops to the ground.
Artificial Plant Treated With Fire Retardant
In this video, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our fire retardant on a cherry blossom. When a flame is applied, it is unable to take hold, and is extinguished immediately when the flame is removed. Although the blossom will eventually burn, the spread of the fire has been significantly slowed, as desired.
Types of Flame-Resistant Artificial Plants
There are two types of flame-resistant artificial plants on the market: inherently flame-resistant and surface treated (as shown in the video).
Inherently Flame Resistant Artificial Plants
Artificial plants and trees with flame-resistant foliage are available from retailers who can provide a BS 5852 certificate on purchase. This foliage is made from chemically treated materials which will not ignite when exposed to a naked flame, such as a match or lighter.
Pros:
Flame retardant won't rub off and the surface remains unaffected
Cons:
Limited choice and expensive
Surface Treated Artificial Plants
At Fireproofing, we provide flame retardant treatments for artificial plants. The process involves spraying or dipping the plants, which can be done at any time. Once the treatment is complete, the surface of the foliage is covered and the plants are able to resist ignition from a naked flame such as a match or lighter. To ensure this process is carried out safely and effectively, a BS 5852 certificate of treatment may be requested by a fire officer or risk assessor. We are here to provide this service.
Surface-treated foliage must be re-treated every 2 years to ensure optimal flame resistance and may result in a glossier finish on plastics.
Pros:
More Choice
Can be carried out at a later stage once attached to the wall
Cons:
Impossible to know if every surface has been covered evenly
Flame retardant rubs off
Re-treatment is necessary after 2 years
Case Studies
MR FOGG’S HOUSE OF BOTANICALS & TREEHOUSE
Location: 48 Newman Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1QQ
Project Description: The artificial plants on the ceiling of the first-floor bar were identified as lacking fire resistance during a fire inspection. We were approached for assistance and requested images of the area to prepare a quotation. Prior to applying the spray, we protected the light fittings, wall art, bar area, and floor with plastic sheeting.
PERSIA Lounge Grill & Bar
Location: 126 Church Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 2EA
Project Description: After providing a quote, we arrived to treat items that had been taken down due to not being fire-resistant by request of the local council fire inspectors. After certification, these were then refitted.
Free Spirit Pubs House
Location: 130 the Parade, Leamington Spa CV32 4AG
Project Description: Various plants in baskets, wrapped around beams and on walls. What could be removed was treated on trays on plastic sheeting to protect the floor, and others were carefully sprayed in situ. A BS 5852 certificate was then issued to satisfy the fire officer.
Reloaded Nightclub
Location: 7-9 Wharf St, Newbury, RG14 5AN
Project Description: The nightclub could not open until its artificial flowers attached to the ceiling had been treated with our specialist fire retardant spray, which can treat difficult synthetic materials to BS
5852 Part 1.
How Can I Get My Artificial Plants Made Fire Resistant?
The Roof Garden in Essex recently required a flame retardant spraying service for their artificial plants and foliage, including Cherry Blossoms, plastic foliage, and fabric flowers. Our clear, odourless treatment was ideal for preventing the rapid spread of flames and was applied before the plants were installed. Upon completion, we issued a BS 5852 certificate of flame retarding treatment.
Before making the decision to decorate walls and ceilings with artificial flowers, be sure to consult with your fire officer or risk assessor to determine any required safety measures. If the flowers have already been attached, inquire about what British Standard (BS) or European Standard (EN) they must adhere to.
Tips:
Before requesting an accurate quote from us, please determine how many square metres of wall space the plants occupy. We'd also appreciate it if you could send photos of the area via email.
Aftercare:
Artificial plants that have been treated with fire retardant can be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. It is recommended that the fire retardant be reapplied to the plants every two years.
Contact Us
For more information about our flame retardant spraying services for artificial plants and how we can help you ensure the safety of your public or commercial spaces, please feel free to contact us. Our team is ready to answer any questions and provide personalized quotes for your specific needs.
Call us at 07970 522475 to speak with one of our experienced team members.
Email us at adam@fire-proofing.co.uk for inquiries or to request a quote.
Visit our website at https://www.fire-proofing.co.uk for more information about our services.
Get Your Quote:
For a personalized quote, please fill out our "Get Your Quote" form available on our website. This will help us understand your requirements better and provide you with an accurate estimate for your project.
Please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance with fireproofing your artificial plants, flowers, and foliage. Our team at Fireproofing is dedicated to ensuring the safety of public and commercial spaces through high-quality flame retardant services.
About the Author: Adam Sawyer
Adam is an industry expert with over 35 years of experience in textile care and fire retardant treatments. He is the founder of Fireproofing, a company specializing in fire retardant spraying and application services for curtains, fabrics, upholstery, wood, and more. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and safety, Adam has built lasting relationships with clients and established a reputation for excellence in the field. To learn more about Adam and Fireproofing, visit About Us & Our Expert.
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