[diti_timeline _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][diti_timeline_item title=”1980″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

In response to industry challenges in flammability and regulation, The Flexible Polyurethane Foam Manufacturers Association is formed.  David Lipton, known to foam manufacturers because of his position as Executive Director of the Carpet Cushion Council, becomes its first Executive Director. Denny Peterson becomes first PFA President.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1981″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Jim McIntyre joins PFA as its Legal Counsel, a position he continues to hold. McIntyre, U.S. Budget Director under President Carter, has been recognized for major contributions he has made to the flexible foam industry during his career.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1982″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Momentum grows for the new trade association. In addition to the initial five companies who founded it, numerous other companies join, realizing that working together would enhance their effectiveness.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1983″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The Flexible Polyurethane Foam Manufacturers’ Association begins expanding influence, advocating for the flexible foam industry and commenting on existing and proposed legislation.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1984″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

By now, the association has an active public relations and communications program advocating fire safety. The program will ultimately include a series of television public service announcements on fire safety and home furnishings that will air on number public television stations nationwide.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1985″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The association shortens its name to the Polyurethane Foam Association.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1986″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

David Lipton retires, and Lou Peters becomes PFA’s second Executive Director.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1987″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Under Peters’ direction, PFA enhances its organizational structure, which puts it on sounder financial footing and allows PFA to become even more responsive to industry needs.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1988″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Concerns regarding foam plant emissions lead to an ongoing program of monitoring the health of plant employees to determine if there are increased instances of occupational asthma in foam plant workers. At present, twenty-eight years of data indicate that foam plant works have lower instances of OA than the general population.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1989″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

In response to the Montreal Protocol, PFA announces that the FPF industry in the US will phase out use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as an auxiliary blowing agent. PFA takes the lead in persuading the EPA to coordinate with the foam industry in the development of CFC regulations.  The resulting rules, issued in 1991, were acceptable to both the EPA and the industry – and were the first EPA industry regulations that did not elicit legal challenge.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1990″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

As part of its annual meetings, PFA begins a formal technical session, with presenters from member companies and other organizations discussing new industry developments. Papers are archived, ultimately creating a highly valuable resource for technical information.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1991″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA begins its InTouch series of technical bulletins, covering various aspects of foam performance, specifications, and applications. The program continues 30 years later, with documents revised to remain current.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1992″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA works with EPA on stormwater permitting requirements, allowing foam producers to apply as an industry, rather than individually. This results in dramatic savings for foam producers.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1993″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA’s proactive stance on monitoring regulatory efforts and advising its membership attracts more companies to become members of the association. The National Association of Fire Marshals petitions the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to establish a national standard for upholstered furniture flammability. CPSC considers various options over the next several decades.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1994″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

A multi-year collaboration between foam producers and upholstered furniture manufacturers culminates in the Joint Industry Foam Standards and Guideline is an 82-page document covering standards for all types of foam used in upholstery construction. PFA and the American Home Furnishing Alliance worked closely with individual member companies on this project, which provided a key educational tool for both industries.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1995″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA rolls out its first website, www.pfa.org, becoming one of the first trade associations to have a presence on the internet.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1996″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA’s Technical Program continues to flourish. In the year’s two meetings, a total of 22 technical papers are presented.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1997″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Although much of the association’s initial work focused on issues in the upholstery and bedding industries, PFA works to support all markets for FPF. During this period, PFA expanded its education programs to included technical information on markets including transportation and packaging.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1998″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA coordinated efforts within the FPF industry and pioneered solutions for reducing emissions of the raw material methylene chloride to meet the EPA’s National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations—ahead of schedule.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”1999″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

As CPSC moves toward a requirement that upholstered furniture resist small open flame ignition, Congress funds an independent study by the National Academy of Sciences’ National Research Council (NRC) concerning health risks posed by exposure to FR chemicals that would be used to meet such a regulation. PFA proactively monitors the research, advising members of activity and how it may impact the industry.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2000″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

As interest in the environment and sustainability grows, PFA helps educate both industry and consumers on one of the most successful recycling programs in the nation: carpet cushion. More than 80% of carpet cushion is made using recycled polyurethane foam scrap from industrial processes and recycled consumer products.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2001″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA recommends that CPSC focus upholstered furniture regulation on the most common causes of furniture fires, smoldering cigarettes.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2002″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Bio-based raw materials now used regularly in the FPF industry were introduced in a PFA Technical Session.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2003″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA, working in conjunction with a number of other associations in the home furnishings and fire safety industries, introduces the Fire Prevention Alliance, an organization focused on fire safety education for consumers.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2004″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The Flexible Polyurethane Foam Hall of Fame is created, and its first members inducted. Lou Peters retires, and longtime PFA Communications Counsel Bob Luedeka becomes the third Executive Director of PFA.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2005″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

In January 2005, PFA manufacturer members voluntarily phased out the use of pentaBDE flame retardants in the manufacture of FPF for use in home furnishings cushioning applications. This process required nearly two years of conversion work. In this same year, the Herman Stone Technical Excellence Award is established, recognizing with a cash prize the best presentation in PFA Technical Sessions, as voted by session attendees.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2006″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA’s dedication to science and accurate information about FPF leads the association to develop unexpected relationships and alliances. As interest in the health and environmental impacts of flame retardant chemicals increase, Executive Director Bob Luedeka created ongoing dialogue with the Green Science Policy Institute and other NGO’s.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2007″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA issues a Platform On Sustainability. This eight-point document addresses the FPF industry’s positions on safety, technical information exchange, energy use, sustainability, and human rights.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2008″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA plays an active role in the creation of CertiPUR-US®, a program developed to certify that flexible polyurethane foam used in consumer products meets standards for chemical content, emissions and durability and are analyzed by independent, accredited laboratories. Today, foam producers from all countries may participate in the program to meet rigorous certification benchmarks.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2009″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA’s Technical Sessions archive has more than 275 technical presentations and papers stored and accessible to FPF industry professionals.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2010″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

In May of 2010, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) released the results of a long-term study, conducted with funding from the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) concerning the respiratory health of people living near foam manufacturing plants that use Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI). PFA monitored the project from its beginning and contributed many times to the science involved in the study. The study determined there was no health risk from TDI exposure.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2011″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

PFA remains at the forefront of flammability testing, contributing comments to a variety of testing proposals ranging from CPSC proposals, to the State of California, to NIST test cigarettes.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2012″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

A Pulitzer-nominated series in the Chicago Tribune takes a critical look at flame retardant chemicals used in furniture, children’s clothing, electronics, and other uses. PFA represents the flexible foam industry, explaining how the industry had already voluntarily discontinued a number of flame retardant chemicals, and helping dispel false information about FRs in home furnishings.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2013″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

California makes major changes to its Technical Bulletin 117 covering upholstered furniture flammability, originally established in 1975.  The new Technical Bulletin 117-2013 adopts a smolder test method in place of a prior focus on small open flame ignition. PFA, along with other industry organizations, worked closely with state regulators in the development of the new standard.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2014″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

A survey of PFA members identifies new initiatives for the association, including the need to attract new people into the industry. PFA responds with the development of new education programs.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2015″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

 

An article in Occupational Safety and Health Magazine details the flexible polyurethane foam industry’s work in developing practices that protect workers from exposure from Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI). The article highlighted PFA’s work in sharing information among foam producers and its ongoing study showing Occupational Asthma cases among foam workers being well below general population averages.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2016″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Through funding provided by PFA Associate Members, PFA rolls out the “An Introduction To The Flexible Polyurethane Foam Industry” video series. Video segments from industry experts cover foam chemistry, manufacturing, performance, and applications, becoming a sought-after training resource.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2017″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Based on a survey of members who indicated the need to attract young professionals into the industry, PFA creates a new website, flexfoamjobs.com, designed to encourage entry-level applications.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2018″ _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Russ Batson, an attorney and government affairs representative for the furniture and plastics industries, becomes the fourth Executive Director in PFA’s four-decade history.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2019″ _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

PFA introduces an all-new website, expanding education and training materials, and creating a member portal for access to key industry information.

[/diti_timeline_item][diti_timeline_item title=”2020″ _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

On December 27, 2020, Congress mandated California Technical Bulletin 117-2013 (TB 117-2013) as a national flammability standard for upholstered furniture, and barred CPSC and states from adopted contrary requirements.  This culminated more than 40 years of effort by PFA and other organizations to establish a national flammability standard for upholstered furniture.

[/diti_timeline_item][/diti_timeline]