In February 2009 the Standard incorporated the addition of:
- An expanded Scope
- Revised definitions for all leather types listed in section 3.3
- An updated list of attributes in section 4
- A revised and expanded labelling requirements section
- An expanded description of the certification program in Appendix 3 and
- Some editorial changes
Chemicals of concern
Furntech acknowledges consumer concern relating to the presence of potentially harmful chemicals and hazardous agents within leather has increased globally in recent years. We recognise added substances like unfixed chromium, the biocide Pentachlorophenol (PCP), the preservative Formaldehyde, the finishing solvent N-Methylpyrrolidone (NMP), and most especially the anti-mould fungicide Dimethylfumarate (DMF) have been directly blamed overseas for inflicting damage on consumer's health. DMF in particular has been linked to causing severe skin complaints, now known as "sofa dermatitis".
