Understanding Fire Safety Standards for Stage Curtains: A Comprehensive Guide to NFPA 701 and NFPA 705
Introduction: Why Stage Curtain Fire Safety Matters
On December 30, 1903, approximately 1,800 people packed into Chicago’s Iroquois Theatre for a matinee performance of the musical “Mr. Blue Beard.” Five weeks after its grand opening, the theater was advertised as “absolutely fireproof” and had been praised as one of the finest in America (Smithsonian Magazine, 2018). Shortly after 3:00 p.m., a spark from an arc lamp ignited a muslin curtain above the stage. Within fifteen minutes, 602 people were dead, making the Iroquois Theatre fire the deadliest single-building fire in United States history (Hatch, as cited in UL Research Institutes, 2025).
The catastrophe revealed a cascade of failures. The theater’s supposedly asbestos fire curtain was actually made primarily of wood pulp and proved both weak and flammable (Wikipedia, 2025). When stagehands attempted to lower the curtain, it snagged partway down, leaving a 500-square-foot triangular gap that functioned as a flue for a backdrafted fireball that ripped through the auditorium. The six fire extinguishers on hand contained nothing more effective than baking soda in tin tubes, and the theater lacked both a fire alarm and a telephone (UL Research Institutes, 2025).
The Iroquois Theatre tragedy became a watershed moment for fire safety in public assembly spaces. The subsequent investigation prompted John Ripley Freeman, then president of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, to produce “On the Safeguarding of Life in Theaters,” a science-based report that provided recommendations for theater fire safety (UL Standards & Engagement, 2025). The disaster also contributed to the creation of UL testing labels in 1906, establishing the principle that fire safety equipment should be independently verified rather than accepted on manufacturers’ claims (UL Research Institutes, 2025).
More than 120 years later, the principles established in the aftermath of the Iroquois fire remain embedded in modern fire codes. Stage curtains continue to represent one of the largest fuel loads in performing arts facilities. A single grand drape can contain hundreds of pounds of fabric suspended directly above performers and audiences. When these materials ignite, fire spreads rapidly across vertical surfaces, generating toxic smoke and blocking egress routes. The National Fire Protection Association has established specific test methods and guidance documents to address these hazards. Understanding the distinction between NFPA 701 and NFPA 705, and their proper application, is essential for theater technical directors, facilities managers, and fire safety professionals.
Regulatory Framework: How Fire Codes Apply to Stage Curtains
Federal, State, and Local Jurisdiction
The regulatory landscape for flame-retardant fabrics in public assembly spaces is complex because authority is distributed across multiple levels of government. There are no federal regulations requiring flame retardancy of drapery fabrics used in public spaces (Sew What? Inc., 2019). Instead, the National Fire Protection Association develops consensus standards that state and local governments may adopt, modify, or reference in their own codes.
Most jurisdictions achieve compliance through one of three mechanisms:
Direct Adoption of NFPA 701: Many state and local governments have not developed their own flame-retardancy standards. Instead, they require that draperies used in public spaces meet the NFPA 701 standard. The Florida Fire Prevention Code, for example, specifies in Chapter 20 that fabric used in places of assembly must meet NFPA 701 standards (Sew What? Inc., 2019).
Reference Through Model Codes: The International Fire Code (IFC) and International Building Code (IBC) reference NFPA 701 for specific applications. IBC Section 806.1 “Decorative Materials and Trim” specifies NFPA 701 as the flammability standard for window shade applications (Mermet USA, n.d.). Similarly, IFC Section 807 establishes requirements for decorative materials in various occupancy types and references NFPA 701 testing.
State-Specific Standards: Some jurisdictions have developed their own standards that may exceed or differ from NFPA 701. California maintains a separate registration system administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal under Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations.
NFPA 101: Life Safety Code Requirements
NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code, provides the foundational requirements for fire safety in buildings across occupancy types. Section 10.3.1 specifically addresses “Draperies, Curtains, and other Loosely Hanging Furnishings and Decorations” and assigns NFPA 701 as the required test standard (Mermet USA, n.d.). Meeting NFPA 701 automatically satisfies the requirements referenced in these building and fire codes.
For assembly occupancies, which include theaters, NFPA 101 establishes specific requirements based on the nature of the space and the presence of fire protection systems. Chapter 12 addresses new assembly occupancies, while Chapter 13 covers existing assembly occupancies. Section 12.4.5.11.1 states that combustible scenery of cloth, film, vegetation, and similar materials must meet the requirements of NFPA 701 (Americover, 2021).
The Life Safety Code takes a comprehensive approach to fire protection that extends beyond material testing. It addresses egress design, fire detection and suppression systems, interior finish requirements, and operational practices. For performing arts facilities, this means NFPA 701 compliance for soft goods represents just one element of a broader fire protection strategy.
International Fire Code and International Building Code
The International Fire Code (IFC) Section 807 establishes requirements for decorative materials across occupancy types. Where required to exhibit improved fire performance, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings, and other similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings must be tested by an approved agency and meet the flame propagation performance criteria of Test Method 1 or Test Method 2, as appropriate, of NFPA 701 (UpCodes, n.d.).
The IFC specifies that compliance shall be indicated by a tag affixed to each curtain, drape, or textile. The tag must be affixed by the owner of the material after gaining assurance that the material is inherently flame retardant, has been provided with current flame-retardant treatment, or is otherwise compliant with NFPA 701. The tag must indicate the name of the owner of the material and a statement indicating compliance with the Fire Code (UpCodes, n.d.).
The IFC also authorizes fire code officials to conduct field testing in accordance with NFPA 705 on any curtain, drape, or textile installed. This provision gives authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) a mechanism for verifying compliance when documentation is unavailable or suspect.
For auditoriums in Group A occupancies, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings, and similar combustible decorative material suspended from walls or ceilings cannot exceed 75 percent of the aggregate wall area where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system (UpCodes, n.d.). This percentage limitation applies even when materials comply with NFPA 701, recognizing that flame-retardant fabrics still contribute to fire load.
California State Fire Marshal Requirements
California maintains separate and distinct flame-retardancy requirements from NFPA 701 through the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM). Under Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, the OSFM issues certificates of registration for approved flame-retardant chemicals, for individuals and companies that apply flame-retardant chemicals, for nonflammable materials, and for fabrics that have been treated with flame-retardant chemicals (OSFM, n.d.).
The California system requires that all approved and registered flame-retardant chemicals, nonflammable materials, and treated fabrics undergo laboratory testing and demonstrate flame-retardant capabilities before registration. The OSFM has authority in drinking and dining establishments, places of public assembly, and schools to require that decorative materials and fabrics (including curtains, drapes, drops, hangings, and tents) be made from nonflammable materials or treated with approved flame-retardant chemicals (OSFM, n.d.).
California Title 19 specifies labeling requirements that differ from NFPA 701 documentation practices. Under Section 1324, every article that is treated and every roll or package of registered approved fabric or material must have a small label or tag securely affixed bearing the Seal of Registration of the State Fire Marshal of California, the name and registration number of the concern responsible for the job or production, the name of the registered chemical used or the registered fabric or material, and the date the chemical was applied or the fabric or material was produced (California Code of Regulations, n.d.).
For fabrics treated with “Type II” chemicals (those that are water-soluble), the label must include the statement: “This article must be re-treated after washing or dry cleaning by systems with soap and water added” (California Code of Regulations, n.d.).
The California performance criteria are stricter than NFPA 701 in some respects. The char length cannot exceed six inches for any individual specimen, and no afterflame can continue for more than four seconds (Mermet USA, n.d.). For facilities operating in California or for touring productions that may play California venues, separate compliance documentation is required.
New York City Fire Department Requirements
New York City maintains its own fire code with specific requirements for flame-retardant materials that exceed many other jurisdictions. The 2022 New York City Fire Code requires that all curtains, draperies, and hanging fabric in any laboratory, place of public assembly, educational occupancy, or common area in any business or residential occupancy be flame resistant as defined by NFPA 701 (Weill Cornell Medicine, n.d.).
The critical distinction in New York City is that compliance must be certified by a holder of a current and valid Certificate of Fitness for Flame Retardant Treatment (C-15) issued by the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). When a material or item is treated with a flame-retardant chemical to meet code requirements, the application must be conducted by or under the personal supervision of a C-15 Certificate of Fitness holder (NYC Fire Code 2014, n.d.).
The FDNY requires that any flame-retardant chemical used to render a material flame resistant have a certificate of approval issued in accordance with fire code provisions. This creates a two-layer certification system: both the chemical and the applicator must be approved by FDNY.
For theater operators in New York City, this means that even if curtains arrive from manufacturers with NFPA 701 certification, the certificate may need to be verified or reissued by an FDNY-certified professional if the treatment was not originally performed under C-15 supervision. Products made of inherently flame-resistant fabric need only undergo a one-time certification, but products made of fabric that is not inherently flame resistant must be treated with a flameproofing chemical by a Certificate of Fitness holder (Weill Cornell Medicine, n.d.).
Evidence of certification must be filed with the FDNY prior to installation, maintained by the user department, and available for review by any FDNY representative on demand. Upon completion of FDNY-approved fire-retardant application, certified companies issue a flameproofing affidavit officially stating that the establishment meets required fire safety standards (NYC Flameproofing, n.d.).
NFPA 701: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films
Standard Overview and Scope
NFPA 701 establishes laboratory test methods that assess how flames propagate across hanging textiles and films exposed to an ignition source (National Fire Protection Association, 2023a). The standard has been in continuous development since 1938, with regular revisions to reflect advances in textile technology and fire science (Global Plastic Sheeting, n.d.). The current edition is the 2023 edition, which includes additions such as artificial decorative vegetation to the scope and specific exclusion of personal protective equipment.
The standard applies to:
- Fabrics or other materials used in curtains, draperies, or other window treatments
- Single-layer fabrics
- Multilayer curtain and drapery assemblies in which layers are fastened together by sewing or other means
- Fabrics used in the construction of awnings and similar architectural fabric structures
- Banners
- Tents and membrane structures
- Plastic films with or without reinforcement or backing used for decoration inside buildings
- Temporary or permanent enclosures for buildings under construction (ANSI Webstore, n.d.)
The standard does not apply to textile wall coverings or textile ceiling coverings that are adhered to building surfaces. These applications require different test methods, typically NFPA 286, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth, or ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials (NFPA 705, n.d.).
A critical point that many theater operators misunderstand: NFPA 701 is a test method standard, not a flameproofing requirement. The standard defines how to test materials, not which materials must be tested. Requirements for testing come from building codes, fire codes, and occupancy classifications that reference NFPA 701.
Test Method 1: Small-Scale Testing for Lighter Materials
Test Method 1 applies to materials with an areal density less than or equal to 700 g/m² (21 oz/yd²). This includes most stage curtains, sheers, light draperies, table skirts, table linens, display booth separators, and textile wall hangings (TVF, 2024).
Test Apparatus and Configuration: Testing is performed in a controlled combustion chamber. Ten specimens are cut, each 150 mm x 400 mm (approximately 6″ x 16″), with the length parallel to the lengthwise direction of the material. For woven fabrics, five specimens are cut with the length parallel to the warp (lengthwise threads) and five with the length parallel to the weft (crosswise threads) to evaluate both directions (Element Materials Technology, n.d.).
Specimen Conditioning: Before testing, specimens are conditioned to standardize moisture content. Specimens are weighed, then conditioned for at least 30 minutes at 105 ± 3°C (220 ± 5°F) to remove moisture (Element Materials Technology, n.d.). This conditioning ensures that test results are not influenced by variations in ambient humidity.
Test Procedure: Each specimen is suspended vertically in an open combustion chamber using a pin bar at the top edge. A calibrated test flame is applied to the center of the lower edge of the specimen for 45 seconds and then withdrawn (Begoodtex, 2024). The specimen is allowed to burn until the flame self-extinguishes, after which it is removed from the pin bar and re-weighed. The percent mass loss is determined and used as a measure of total flame spread and specimen damage.
Pass/Fail Criteria for Test Method 1:
For a material to pass Test Method 1, it must meet all of the following criteria across the sample of 10 specimens:
- Mass Loss: The average weight loss of the 10 specimens after burning must not exceed 40% (Begoodtex, 2024).
- Afterflame: The average afterflame time (the time the specimen continues to burn after the ignition source is removed) must not exceed 2.0 seconds (Mermet USA, n.d.).
- Flaming Drips: Fragments or residues of specimens that fall to the floor of the test chamber must not continue to burn for more than an average of 2.0 seconds per specimen for the sample of 10 specimens (Element Materials Technology, n.d.).
If any individual specimen’s percent mass loss exceeds the mean value plus three standard deviations, a retest may be required. This statistical outlier provision helps identify manufacturing inconsistencies or testing anomalies.
Test Method 2: Large-Scale Testing for Heavier Materials
Test Method 2 applies to materials with an areal density greater than 700 g/m² (21 oz/yd²), as well as materials that cannot be tested under Method 1 regardless of weight, including:
- Vinyl-coated fabric blackout linings or lined draperies using vinyl-coated fabric blackout lining
- Plastic films
- Decorative materials other than standard fabrics
- Awnings, plastic tarps, tents, banners, and membrane structures (TVF, 2024)
The test setup for Method 2 differs significantly from Method 1 due to the heavier weight and different burning characteristics of these materials.
Test Configuration: Test Method 2 uses larger specimens in a folded configuration. The specimens are tested in a vertical position, but the ignition protocol and evaluation criteria differ from Method 1. The ignition time is 70 seconds for folded specimens and 120 seconds for flat specimens (Begoodtex, 2024).
Pass/Fail Criteria for Test Method 2:
- Char Length: For folded specimens, the char length of any single specimen must not exceed 1,050 mm (41.3 inches) (Begoodtex, 2024).
- Afterflame: The afterflame time of any single specimen must not exceed 2.0 seconds.
- Flaming Drips: Any drippings falling to the floor must not continue to burn for more than 2.0 seconds.
It is strongly recommended to test blackout fabrics under Method 2 regardless of their weight. The vast majority of blackout fabrics feature acrylic or vinyl coatings that have high heat release rates when burning and are prone to producing specific dripping behavior. The small ignition source of Method 1 may not accurately reflect their combustion risk (Begoodtex, 2024).
Selecting the Appropriate Test Method
The choice between Test Method 1 and Test Method 2 is not based on user preference but strictly depends on the density (weight) and composition of the fabric. Choosing the wrong method will render test results invalid (Begoodtex, 2024).
The following materials must always be tested using Test Method 2, regardless of their areal density:
- Vinyl-coated fabrics
- Blackout linings with coatings
- Plastic films and sheeting
- Lined draperies with vinyl-coated backing
- Decorative materials other than standard woven fabrics
- Tents, tarps, awnings, and membrane structures
For most stage applications, the typical grand drape, leg, border, or cyclorama made from cotton velour, synthetic velour, or similar theatrical fabrics will fall under Test Method 1. However, scrims with metallic coatings, plastic projection surfaces, or blackout linings may require Test Method 2.
Laboratory Testing and Accreditation
NFPA 701 testing must be performed by qualified testing laboratories. While the standard is published by NFPA (a U.S.-based organization), reports from any ISO 17025 accredited third-party laboratory that is qualified to perform NFPA 701 tests are generally accepted by U.S. buyers and fire marshals (Begoodtex, 2024). Major testing organizations such as SGS, Intertek, and UL have facilities capable of performing these tests.
For California Title 19 testing, the laboratory must be specifically accredited by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Testing laboratories accredited only for NFPA 701 cannot issue certificates that satisfy California requirements.
Testing laboratories typically require the following for NFPA 701 evaluation:
- Sample material sufficient for 10 test specimens (plus extras for potential retesting)
- Information about the fabric composition and construction
- Information about any flame-retardant treatments applied
- Specification of whether the material should be tested as received, after leaching, or after weathering
For fabrics used in outdoor applications or that will be exposed to water, the standard includes provisions for testing after soaking in water for 72 hours (leaching) and after 100 hours of accelerated weathering. Three sets of ten fabric samples are flame tested after completing these three preconditioning steps (TVF, 2024). This simulates the degradation that flame-retardant treatments may experience under real-world conditions.
Turnaround time for laboratory testing varies by facility workload, but most laboratories can complete testing and issue reports within two to four weeks of receiving samples and paperwork (VTEC Laboratories, 2025).
Documentation and Certification
When a fabric passes NFPA 701 testing, the testing laboratory issues a test report documenting the results. Manufacturers or suppliers may also issue a Certificate of Flame Retardancy based on these laboratory results. This certificate should accompany the curtain throughout its service life and be maintained for inspection by the authority having jurisdiction.
NFPA 701 itself does not mandate specific labeling requirements for compliant materials. The standard is a test method, not a labeling standard. However, various building codes, fire codes, and state regulations establish labeling requirements for flame-retardant materials. Confusion about labeling often arises because different jurisdictions have different requirements.
For most jurisdictions, acceptable documentation includes:
- Laboratory test report from an accredited testing facility
- Certificate of Flame Retardancy issued by the manufacturer or supplier
- Tag or label affixed to the fabric indicating compliance with NFPA 701
- Purchase documentation indicating the material was certified to NFPA 701 at time of sale
Theater operators should request certificates at the time of purchase. Not all suppliers automatically provide certificates; you may need to specifically request documentation when placing orders (Sew What? Inc., 2019).
Flame Retardant Categories: A Critical Distinction for Theater Operations
Understanding Fabric Classification
Not all flame-retardant fabrics behave identically over time, and this distinction has significant operational and financial implications for theater facilities. The industry uses specific terminology to classify fabrics based on how their flame-retardant properties are achieved:
Inherently Flame Retardant (IFR) or Permanently Flame Retardant (PFR): These fabrics are woven from fibers that are noncombustible for the life of the fabric. The flame-retardant properties are built into the fiber’s polymer structure, not applied as a surface treatment. For this reason, the fire retardancy of IFR and PFR fabrics will last for the life of the fabric and will not dissipate after cleaning (Sew What? Inc., 2019).
Common IFR/PFR materials used in theatrical applications include:
- IFR velour (synthetic velours with inherent flame resistance)
- Modacrylic fiber blends
- Certain polyester fabrics engineered for permanent flame resistance
- Fiberglass fabrics (naturally non-combustible)
The primary advantage of IFR/PFR fabrics is elimination of recurring treatment costs. Once installed, these materials require no retreatment throughout their service life, which for properly maintained velour stage curtains can be 35-40 years (Flamecheck, n.d.). The disadvantage is higher initial cost compared to FR-treated alternatives.
Flame Retardant (FR) Treated: These fabrics have been topically treated with flame-retardant chemicals after weaving. All cottons and other natural fibers certified as flame retardant fall into this category, as do some synthetic fabrics (Sew What? Inc., 2019).
FR treatments work by coating flammable fabrics with a mineral-based or chemical barrier that prevents fire from reaching the fibers. Common treatment chemicals include phosphorus-based compounds, which are the most commonly used in textiles, and mineral-based coatings including salts, phosphors, sulfurs, and other mineral compounds. These typically contain no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), PCBs, or PBDEs, making them non-hazardous (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
The critical limitation of FR treatments is durability. Because the treatment is topical, it will wear out in time, and repeated cleanings will cause the flame retardancy to dissolve sooner. Most flameproofing chemicals are water-soluble and will also dissipate through dry cleaning (Sew What? Inc., 2019). For this reason, FR flame retardancy is typically certified for only one year, although the treatment may remain effective for longer periods depending on environmental conditions and handling.
Durably Flame Retardant (DFR): This intermediate category includes fabrics treated with non-water-soluble chemical compounds that bind to the fibers rather than simply coating them. DFR treatments typically withstand up to 25 washes when laundered properly, making them more durable than standard FR treatments but still requiring eventual reapplication (Northeast Stage, n.d.).
Cannot Be Made Fire Retardant (CNFR): Certain synthetic and metallic fabrics cannot accept flame-retardant treatment. These materials must not be used in public assembly spaces where NFPA 701 compliance is required (Sew What? Inc., 2019). Theater operators should verify flame-retardancy capability before purchasing any fabric for stage use.
Maintenance Implications by Fabric Type
IFR/PFR Fabrics: Even inherently flame-retardant curtains require periodic cleaning. Although the fabric itself remains flame resistant, accumulated dust on the surface is flammable and can reduce the effective fire resistance of the installation. Cleaning removes this dust and restores the full flame-retardant properties of the material (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
IFR/PFR draperies do not typically lose their flame-retardant properties when dry cleaned or properly laundered. Synthetic fabrics that are permanently flame retardant can be professionally dry cleaned or laundered, washed on the delicate cycle using cold water and mild detergent, and tumble dried at low heat (Sew What? Inc., 2018).
FR Treated Fabrics: Cotton velours and other fabrics that have been topically treated for flame retardancy must be professionally dry cleaned using 100% pure solvent dry cleaning solution to help protect the flame-retardant chemical treatment. Even with this method, the flame-retardancy chemical will dissipate over time and with repeated cleaning (Sew What? Inc., 2018).
Non-immersion drapery cleaning is the only method of cleaning drapes that will not remove flame-retardant properties. This specialized cleaning technique uses controlled amounts of solvent applied without immersing the fabric, preserving the FR treatment while removing surface contamination (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
Spot cleaning with commercial dry cleaning solutions should be done as a last resort, as it may result in uneven loss of flame retardancy in the treated areas.
Retreatment Requirements: Typically, the flame retardancy of FR-treated drapery will require renewal every three to five years (Flamecheck, n.d.; On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.). However, certain conditions can accelerate the loss of flame-retardant properties:
- High humidity environments
- Water exposure (flooding, leaks, steam cleaning)
- Aggressive handling or friction
- Chemical exposure from fog machines, haze, or cleaning products
Fire codes understand that flame-retardant treatments wear off over time and need renewal. The International Fire Code specifies that flameproofing treatments shall be renewed as often as required to ensure the material will pass the match flame test in NFPA 705 (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
Cost-Benefit Analysis
The decision between IFR/PFR fabrics and FR-treated fabrics involves weighing initial costs against long-term maintenance expenses:
FR-Treated Cotton Velour:
- Lower initial purchase price
- Recurring costs for laboratory testing (every 1-3 years)
- Recurring costs for retreatment (every 3-5 years)
- Risk of treatment failure between testing intervals
- Documentation management burden
IFR/PFR Synthetic Velour:
- Higher initial purchase price (often 2-3 times higher)
- One-time certification
- No retreatment costs over 35-40 year service life
- Reduced documentation management
- Potentially different aesthetic and acoustic properties than traditional velour
For permanent installations that will remain in place for decades, IFR/PFR fabrics often prove more economical despite higher initial costs. For touring productions, rental houses, or facilities that frequently change soft goods, the calculation may favor FR-treated options.
NFPA 705: Recommended Practice for a Field Flame Test for Textiles and Films
Critical Classification: Recommended Practice, Not Standard
NFPA 705 is a recommended practice, not an enforceable standard (National Fire Protection Association, 2023b). This distinction is not merely semantic; it fundamentally affects how the document can be used and what conclusions can be drawn from its application.
A “standard” in NFPA terminology establishes mandatory requirements for specific situations when adopted by a jurisdiction. A “recommended practice” provides guidance and recommendations but does not establish requirements that can be enforced as code requirements.
The current edition is the 2023 edition, which updates referenced publications and clarifies the purpose and limitations of field testing.
Purpose and Explicit Limitations
The stated purpose of NFPA 705 is to provide authorities having jurisdiction with a field means of determining the tendency of textiles and films to sustain burning subsequent to the application of a relatively small open flame (National Fire Protection Association, 2023b).
The document contains explicit limitations that theater operators must understand:
No Correlation with NFPA 701: NFPA 705 states directly that there is no known correlation between this recommended practice and NFPA 701 or full-scale fire behavior (GlobalSpec, n.d.). A material that passes the NFPA 705 field test has not been demonstrated to meet NFPA 701 requirements.
Not for Determining Flame Retardancy: Section 1.3.2 of NFPA 705 specifies that this recommended practice should not be used to determine that a textile material or a film is flame retardant. The annex further explains that for many years, codes have used the statement that “materials shall be flame retardant,” and when that statement applies to textiles or films, it is intended to mean that the textile or film meets the flame propagation performance criteria contained in NFPA 701 (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
Limited Utility: The field test method has utility only when the authority having jurisdiction has no reliable data or affixed labels to refer to, and therefore is forced to rely solely on the field test findings (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.).
Reproducibility Not Established: The methods described in NFPA 705 and the results do not correlate with any known test method, and factors relating to reproducibility and correlation have not been determined. Therefore, results should not be relied upon when more definitive test data are available (GlobalSpec, n.d.).
Field Test Procedure
The NFPA 705 field test involves applying a small open flame to a textile sample and observing the material’s behavior. The test examines:
- Whether burning stops when the igniting flame is removed
- Whether flaming residue falls from the specimen
- Whether the material exhibits sustained ignition
The test is conducted using a small gas flame (typically a butane lighter or similar controlled flame source) applied to a sample of the material in question. The sample is held at an angle, and the flame is applied for a specified duration before being removed.
Observations are recorded regarding:
- Cessation of burning when the igniting flame is removed
- Presence or absence of flaming drips
- Continued combustion after flame removal
What NFPA 705 Can and Cannot Determine
NFPA 705 CAN:
- Identify materials that clearly fail to exhibit any flame-retardant properties (materials that continue burning vigorously after flame removal)
- Provide preliminary information when no documentation is available
- Help an AHJ make an immediate determination about occupancy safety in emergency situations
- Indicate potential degradation of flame-retardant treatment in FR fabrics
NFPA 705 CANNOT:
- Certify that curtains meet fire code requirements
- Substitute for NFPA 701 laboratory testing
- Provide documentation acceptable for permanent compliance records
- Determine whether FR-treated fabrics have retained adequate flame-retardant properties
- Establish that a material meets any specific standard
- Be used as evidence of compliance during inspections
Appropriate Use in Theater Operations
Despite its limitations, NFPA 705 has legitimate applications in theater operations:
Preliminary Screening: Before purchasing used soft goods or accepting donated curtains without documentation, a field test can identify materials that obviously fail to exhibit flame-retardant properties. Materials that continue burning after flame removal clearly require treatment or replacement.
Monitoring Treatment Degradation: Annual or semi-annual field testing of FR-treated fabrics can help identify when treatments are beginning to degrade, prompting laboratory testing or retreatment before compliance is compromised. Northeast Stage recommends annual testing of fabric using the NFPA 705 Field Test Method for Textiles, as accumulations of airborne dust and oils may diminish flame resistance (Northeast Stage, n.d.).
Post-Treatment Verification: When flame-retardant treatment has been applied on-site, a field test can verify that the application technique was successful before returning curtains to service. As Flamecheck (n.d.) describes: “Using tongs hold the small test sample of treated and dried material, and hold a gas lighter or flame under the sample for 10 to 12 seconds. When the flame is removed the material should immediately extinguish itself.”
Emergency Assessments: When an AHJ requires immediate verification and no documentation is available, field testing provides better information than no testing at all. However, follow-up laboratory testing should be conducted to establish compliant documentation.
Compliance Strategies for Performing Arts Facilities
Inventory and Documentation Review
The foundation of any compliance program is knowing what materials exist in the facility and what documentation supports their use. A comprehensive inventory should include:
Primary Stage Curtains:
- Grand drape/main curtain
- Act curtain (if separate from grand drape)
- Fire safety curtain/fire curtain (if equipped)
- Proscenium curtains
Masking and Soft Goods:
- Legs (side masking)
- Borders (overhead masking)
- Teasers
- Tormentors
- Tabs
Cycloramas and Backdrops:
- Cycloramas (fabric or hard)
- Painted backdrops
- Scrims (sharksooth, filled, bobbinet)
- Projection surfaces
Specialty Items:
- Acoustic draperies
- Blackout curtains
- Sound baffles and absorbers
- Decorative drapery in lobbies, dressing rooms, or common areas
For each item, locate or request the following documentation:
- Certificate of Flame Retardancy referencing NFPA 701
- Testing laboratory report (if available)
- Purchase documentation with flame-retardancy specifications
- Treatment certificates for FR-treated items
- Dates of most recent treatment or testing
Create a tracking system that records:
- Item description and location
- Fabric type (IFR/PFR, DFR, or FR-treated)
- Original certification date
- Most recent test/treatment date
- Next scheduled test/treatment date
- Certification validity period
Addressing Documentation Gaps
When documentation cannot be located for existing soft goods, theater operators have several options:
Laboratory Retesting: Send representative samples to an accredited testing laboratory for NFPA 701 evaluation. This establishes new baseline documentation for materials that may still be compliant. Sample collection should be done carefully to minimize visible damage, typically from seam allowances, hem areas, or other inconspicuous locations.
Professional Retreatment: For FR-treated fabrics without current documentation, professional flame-retardant treatment can restore compliance. Following treatment, new laboratory testing establishes documentation. Curtains should always be dry cleaned prior to retreatment to ensure proper adhesion of the flame-retardant chemicals (Limelight Productions, n.d.).
Retreatment options include:
- Immersion treatment (preferred for even application)
- Spray application (less expensive but may result in uneven coverage)
- Non-immersion cleaning with treatment (for fabrics that cannot be immersed)
Replacement: For curtains that cannot be documented, cannot accept retreatment, or have reached the end of their service life, replacement with new compliant materials is the most straightforward solution. When replacing, consider IFR/PFR fabrics to eliminate recurring treatment costs.
Inspection and Maintenance Scheduling
Establish a regular inspection and maintenance schedule for all flame-retardant soft goods:
Visual Inspection (Monthly or Before Each Production):
- Check for holes, tears, or damage that could affect flame-retardant properties
- Look for water stains, chemical exposure, or contamination
- Verify that certification tags are present and legible
- Note any changes in fabric appearance or texture
Cleaning (Annually or As Needed):
- Professional dry cleaning for FR-treated fabrics
- Appropriate cleaning method for IFR/PFR fabrics
- Spot cleaning only when necessary, with awareness of effects on FR treatment
Field Testing (Annually for FR-Treated Fabrics):
- Conduct NFPA 705 field testing on representative samples
- Document results and compare to previous years
- Schedule retreatment if field test results suggest degradation
Laboratory Testing (Per Certification Period):
- FR-treated fabrics: Every 1-3 years depending on jurisdiction and environmental conditions
- DFR fabrics: Every 3-5 years or after significant cleaning
- IFR/PFR fabrics: After initial installation and following any incident that might affect properties
Documentation Updates:
- Maintain current certificates on file
- File copies with local fire authority where required
- Update tracking system with all testing, treatment, and inspection dates
Working with Fire Marshals and Inspectors
Fire inspectors in western states and several Canadian provinces are increasingly adding textile and drapery flammability to their inspection protocols (On-Site Drapery Cleaner, n.d.). Building proactive relationships with local fire authorities can facilitate compliance:
Pre-Inspection Preparation:
- Compile all documentation in an organized, accessible format
- Tag soft goods with compliance information where practical
- Prepare a summary sheet identifying each item and its certification status
- Have contact information for suppliers and treatment providers available
During Inspections:
- Be present or have a knowledgeable representative available
- Demonstrate familiarity with applicable codes and standards
- Provide documentation promptly when requested
- If documentation gaps exist, acknowledge them and present a remediation plan
After Inspections:
- Address any deficiencies within specified timeframes
- Document corrective actions taken
- Request follow-up inspection if appropriate
- Incorporate lessons learned into maintenance procedures
Special Considerations for Educational Theater
Educational theater facilities face unique challenges that require specific attention:
Student and Volunteer Access: Ensure that anyone handling soft goods understands the importance of flame-retardant compliance and the need to protect certification documentation.
Budget Constraints: Educational facilities often operate with limited budgets. Planning for certification and retreatment costs in annual operating budgets prevents compliance lapses due to funding shortfalls.
Borrowed or Donated Materials: Traveling productions, community theater loans, and donated materials may lack proper documentation. Establish policies requiring flame-retardancy verification before any soft goods are installed.
Curriculum Integration: Fire safety can be incorporated into technical theater curricula, helping students understand both the regulatory requirements and the life-safety rationale behind them.
Rental Returns: When soft goods are rented from other organizations, verify certification before accepting delivery and document condition upon return.
Conclusion: A Systematic Approach to Stage Curtain Fire Safety
The tragic lesson of the Iroquois Theatre and countless fires since is that fire safety in performing arts facilities cannot be taken for granted. Stage curtains represent a significant fire hazard that requires ongoing attention, proper documentation, and systematic maintenance.
NFPA 701 laboratory testing remains the definitive method for determining whether stage curtains meet fire safety requirements. The standard’s two test methods address different material types, and selecting the appropriate method is essential for valid results. Passing NFPA 701 testing creates the documentation foundation that fire codes require.
NFPA 705 field observation provides a useful screening tool but cannot establish compliance with fire codes. Its explicit limitations make clear that field testing supplements rather than replaces laboratory certification.
The distinction between IFR/PFR and FR-treated fabrics has significant implications for long-term maintenance. Understanding these categories helps theater operators make informed decisions about initial purchases and ongoing care.
Local variations in fire codes, from California’s Title 19 registration system to New York City’s Certificate of Fitness requirements, mean that theater operators must understand not only national standards but also the specific requirements of their jurisdiction.
For theater technical directors, facilities managers, and fire safety professionals, effective compliance requires:
- Complete inventory of all soft goods with current documentation
- Understanding of fabric types and their maintenance requirements
- Established inspection and testing schedules
- Relationships with qualified testing laboratories and treatment providers
- Proactive communication with local fire authorities
The time invested in maintaining flame-retardant compliance represents minimal effort compared to the consequences of a stage fire during a performance. The Iroquois Theatre’s “absolutely fireproof” advertising proved deadly when claims were not backed by genuine fire protection. Modern fire codes, testing standards, and documentation requirements exist specifically to prevent such tragedies. Systematic attention to these requirements honors both the legal obligations and the life-safety mission that fire codes embody.
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