Understanding NFPA 701 and NFPA 705: A Comprehensive Guide to Stage Curtains Compliance in Theaters

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has established specific standards that are essential for the safety and compliance of stage curtains in performing arts centers. Among these, NFPA 701 and NFPA 705 are particularly relevant. This blog post will delve into these standards and provide solutions to help bring your curtains into compliance if they are out of date.

NFPA 701: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films

NFPA 701 is a critical standard that outlines the methods for testing the flammability of textiles and films, including stage curtains.

What You Need to Know:

• Testing Procedures: NFPA 701 requires textiles to be tested in both their original and after-leaching states to determine their flammability. The test measures how quickly flames spread across the material, the char length, and whether any flaming residue occurs.
• Compliance Criteria: Curtains must pass the test by exhibiting specific flame, char length, and flaming residue properties. If the material fails any of these criteria, it cannot be used as a stage curtain.
• Labeling Requirements: Curtains that meet the NFPA 701 standard must be appropriately labeled, indicating compliance, including the date of manufacture and the flame-retardant chemicals used.

Solutions for Compliance:

• Inspection: Regular inspection by a qualified professional to ensure that curtains meet the standard.
• Replacement: If curtains are found to be non-compliant, they must be replaced with materials that meet the NFPA 701 standard.
• Treatment: Professional flame-retardant treatment can be applied to existing curtains to enhance their fire resistance.

NFPA 705: Field Test for Textiles

NFPA 705 provides a field test method for determining the flammability of textiles, including curtains, on-site.

What You Need to Know:

• Field Testing Procedures: This standard allows for on-site testing of textiles using a small, controlled flame. The test examines how the material reacts to the flame, including ignition, flame spread, and after flame.
• Compliance Criteria: Understanding the NFPA 705 field test results can help determine if curtains meet fire safety requirements.
• Documentation: Keeping a record of field test results is essential for demonstrating ongoing compliance with fire safety standards.

Solutions for Compliance:

• On-Site Inspection: Regular on-site inspections using the NFPA 705 field test can ensure ongoing compliance.
• Training: Providing training to staff on how to conduct the NFPA 705 field test can be a cost-effective way to maintain compliance.

Conclusion

While a passing NFPA 705 test indicates the material likely meets fire safety requirements, it’s not a substitute for the more comprehensive NFPA 701 test. For guaranteed compliance, curtains should undergo the NFPA 701 lab test or be replaced with materials demonstrably meeting that standard.

NFPA 701 and NFPA 705 are vital standards for ensuring the fire safety of stage curtains in performing arts centers. By understanding the testing procedures and compliance criteria and implementing regular inspections and training, theater teachers, technical directors, and facilities directors can contribute to a safer environment for all involved in the theatrical experience.

References

National Fire Protection Association. (2019). NFPA 701: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films. Retrieved from https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=701

National Fire Protection Association. (2019). NFPA 705: Field Test for Textiles. Retrieved from https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=705