A LANCASHIRE-based market trader and his supplier have been convicted of selling floor cushions which did not meet fire safety requirements after a prosecution brought by St Helens Council's Trading Standards section.

St Helens Magistrates heard that officers noticed the cushions did not bear labelling, a requirement of the regulations. When taken for examination, both the cover material and filling failed fire tests. The cushions were selling at £2.99 each or two for £5.

Both defendants received a conditional discharge for two years and were ordered to pay council costs of £1,256.00.

Chief Trading Standards Officer Ken Wardale said: "These safety regulations were introduced following many avoidable deaths caused by untreated upholstery materials giving off deadly toxic fumes during house fires. Fire safety experts all agree there has been a significant reduction in lives lost since safety laws were introduced."

Councillor Richard Ward, chairman of the Housing and Environmental Services Committee, said: "This is the latest in a series of prosecutions taken by St Helens Council under these regulations. Although the trading standards service will advise manufacturers and retailers on all aspects of safety regulations, they will nevertheless prosecute those who continue to flout the law."

Local traders wanting advice or help can contact the council's Trading Standards Section on St Helens 456302.

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