Persistent Organic Pollutants, also known as POPs, are a type of material used in some common pieces of household furniture.
This type of material is particularly harmful to human health and also to the environment. As a result, it needs to be disposed of in the correct ways.
In this informative guide, you can learn all about POPs in furniture, what they are, the types of furniture it can be found in, how to check if yours has it, and how to dispose of it too.
Let’s dive in.
What Are POPs And What Does It Stand For?
POPs stands for Persistent Organic Pollutants. They are chemical substances that do not break down in the environment when disposed of. They can also build up in our bodies or in those of animals.
As a result, if they’re not discarded in the right way, they can cause serious damage. Two of the more common types of POPs are industrial chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).
The UK government has in place strict laws and regulations on POPs to minimise the damage to human health and the environment.
Let’s take a look at common types of POPs furniture.
What Types Of Furniture Contain POPs?
A number of different types of furniture contain POPs, and some are very common in households. Here’s a breakdown:
- Sofas and Upholstered Chairs – Many of these items contain foam that was treated with flame-retardant chemicals, especially those manufactured before 2004.
- Mattresses and Cushions – Flame retardants are often used in bedding products to meet fire safety standards.
- Office Chairs and Foam-Based Furniture – Foam padding in these items may contain high levels of flame-retardant chemicals.
It’s important to check to see if your furniture has been treated with certain types of flame retardants. However, if you’ve recently bought your sofa, for example, then it’s likely likely to contain POPs.
Are Carpets Classed As POPs?
Carpets themselves do not contain POPs but some of the materials used in them can contain them, especially older carpets.
The flame-retardant materials that are found in furniture was at one point in time occasionally used in the carpet padding or backing. They’re more commonly found in commercial or public buildings, where flame retardants were used to meet fire safety standards.
It’s always important to check how old your carpet is, to be careful when handling old carpet, and to double-check any old carpet to see what it’s made of.
Why Are Persistent Organic Pollutants Bad?
POPs in furniture pose a threat to the environment and also to human health. The main problem is suggested by their name—they are persistent, meaning they tend not to break down over time, and can build up in humans as well as landfills. If they reach a certain level, it can become harmful.
Here’s an insight into the potential harmful effects of POPs:
- Endocrine Disruption: POPs can interfere with hormone functions, which can affect growth, reproduction, and even cognitive development.
- Immune System Suppression: POPs have been linked to weakened immune systems, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses.
- Increased Cancer Risk: Exposure to certain POPs is associated with a higher risk of cancers, particularly in organs that process chemicals, like the liver.
Now you know about the potentially damaging impact POPs can have, let’s take a look at how to check if your furniture has POPs in it.
How Do I Know If My Sofa Contains POPs?
Figuring out if your furniture contains POPs is imporant. There are a number of steps you can take to make these checks at home. Here are some tips:
- Check the Manufacturing Date: Furniture manufactured before 2004 is more likely to contain flame retardants known to be POPs.
- Look for Labels: Some items have tags indicating they were treated with flame retardants, though this may not always specify the type of chemicals used.
- Consult the Manufacturer: If possible, reach out to the manufacturer for information on whether the item contains POPs.
- Consider Professional Testing: Some environmental services offer testing for harmful chemicals in furniture, though this can be costly.
If you’re still not sure, the best thing to do is not touch it and consult a professional who can help. And if you do decide to handle it, make sure to wear gloves and a face mask, just in case.
This government guide to identifying POPs furniture is also very useful
How Do You Dispose Of Furniture Containing POPs?
Furniture that has POPs in it should not be disposed of in the usual ways. There are certain steps you should follow, not least because strict laws are in place relating to this type of waste material. Here are some tips on disposing of POPs furniture:
- Do Not Burn or Dump: Never burn furniture with POPs, as this can release toxic chemicals into the air. Dumping these items in general waste is also discouraged.
- Contact Your Local Council: Many councils in the UK offer services for collecting and safely disposing of furniture containing hazardous materials.
- Use Specialised Waste Services: Certain waste disposal companies, like ourselves, are certified to handle hazardous materials like POPs. You may need to book a specific collection service to dispose of POP-containing items properly.
- Check for Collection Days: Some areas offer specific collection days for items containing POPs. It’s best to consult your local council’s website or helpline to find out more.
Get Help Disposing Of POPs Furniture
Now that you’ve learned all about POPs in furniture and how they can be a bad thing, you may want help with a removal. If so, get in touch.
Here at Man With A Van Liverpool, we specialise in all types of waste removal, including hazardous substances like POPs. We hold all licenses required by law to dispose of such materials and offer some of the best prices around. Contact us today to learn more.
