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Two samples of layered rag flock forming part of composite
pads were found not to be satisfactory. These composite pads
are made up of coir fibre needled on to a hessian backing and the
coir pad is then covered with tissue paper and a layer of rag
flock needled on. The pads are used in the furniture upholstery
trade. One sample just failed the soluble impurities test, the
permitted maximum being 1.8 per cent. and the actual test
figure being 1.9 per cent. The other sample failed both the
soluble impurities test and the test for chlorine content, the
soluble impurities figure being 2.0 per cent. and the chlorine
content 200 parts per million (permitted maximum 30 parts per
million). The matter was reported to the Public Health Committee.
Having regard to the fact that the failure of the tests
in the layered flock may have been caused by salt from the
coir fibre impregnating the flock during manufacture of the
composite pads, the Medical Officer of Health for the area in
which the place of manufacture was situated, was informed
accordingly; samples were taken at the factory and found to be
satisfactory. In the circumstances the Committee decided to
take no action.