As previously researched and reported by the Australian Furniture Association, the concerns about hazardous AZO dyes in clothing and bed linen have been extended to include textiles and leather used in the manufacture of furniture in Australia and contained in imported products.
The ACCC are alerted to potential exposure to chemicals such as formaldehyde from bonded leather in imported furniture. The AFA encourages consumers to report any incidents of suspected exposures, or their concerns directly to the ACCC.
This issue is an international one, for example California has signed law legislation making it mandatory for manufacturers to disclose on the label whether couches and other furniture contain carcinogenic flame retardants.
The AFA will continue to watch these international developments and provide updates to AFA Members and the wider community.
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