No risk from lead in leather, says University of Cincinnati Leather Research Lab

HIGH POINT — Lead in leather upholstery finishes presents no risk to health or safety, the University of Cincinnati Leather Research Lab has concluded in testing done for the American Home Furnishings Alliance.

In light of pending legislation in Congress and the controversy surrounding the incidence of lead in consumer products, the AHFA earlier this year explored whether the furniture industry should be concerned about the use of lead-based pigments in its products.

The latest testing centered on leather, bonded leather, bycast and vinyl.

The University of Cincinnati Leather Research Lab said it determined that “even in the most extreme exposure circumstances” a leather finish containing lead does not present a health or safety risk.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has determined that residential leather upholstered furniture intended for adult use is not covered under current regulation. Similarly, it is not covered in the new legislation as currently proposed.

AHFA cautions that this research was based on limited testing. The alliance continues to encourage companies to conduct independent testing and to communicate with suppliers about restrictions on lead in products produced for sale in the United States.

Consumer products are covered by federal regulations that limit the amount of lead in paint, as well as standards that limit lead in toys and vinyl products intended for children. Both the U.S. House and Senate versions of the legislation now under consideration would apply more stringent lead limits.

The new legislation primarily targets toys and jewelry intended for children, but also covers paints, coatings, plastics, electronics, batteries and textiles. It would apply to furniture coatings and any furniture intended for children’s use.