News release written by CertiPUR-US and published, unedited, by BedTimes
The free 20-minute course provides an easy way to learn about foam certification
CertiPUR-US® aims to prevent inaccurate claims and misinformation to consumers
(ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. – Jan. 30, 2017) An increasing number of consumers are demanding bedding and upholstered furniture that contains certified flexible polyurethane foam, but can they be certain that retail sales associates (RSAs) and customer service representatives are providing accurate information?
The CertiPUR-US® foam certification program has just released a free, engaging, interactive, online course to ensure consumers are given accurate information. The course explains what it takes to meet the CertiPUR-US program’s rigorous guidelines to achieve certification, and how important it is to make only accurate claims about the program.
Those in the industry that successfully complete the 20-minute course will be better able to credibly and confidently answer consumer questions about certified foam, and will earn a certificate to acknowledge their successful completion of the course.
“The need to educate retail sales and customer service staff became apparent after CertiPUR-US mystery shoppers observed many giving customers misleading and inaccurate information,” said CertiPUR-US program Executive Director Mike Crowell. “This short course which can be taken from any computer or mobile phone gives those in the industry knowledge that will enhance their credibility and sales potential. We absolutely want them to succeed.”
Crowell says the course would also be appropriate for marketing teams, copywriters and those responsible for signage, packaging, web content, press releases, and other promotional materials.
“With about 500 companies and brands now offering certified foam in products, it is critical that those in the bedding and upholstered furniture industries are able to address consumers’ questions and provide accurate details about the CertiPUR-US program,” he said.
Crowell outlined the four most common mistakes made about the program:
Misspelling the name of the CertiPUR-US program;
Indicating the mattress or upholstered furniture is certified, rather than just the flexible polyurethane foam inside;
Associating inaccurate or unsubstantiated claims about certified foam, such as “non-toxic,” “chemical-free,” “safe,” or “flame-retardant free;”
Using the CertiPUR-US logo or name without permission — which can only be obtained by those selling certified foam or products containing certified foam who register with the program.
The CertiPUR-US program is limited to certification of flexible polyurethane foam used in bedding products such as mattresses, toppers, and pillows, as well as sofas, chairs, and other upholstered furniture.
Foam producers submit their flexible polyurethane foam for evaluation and testing by independent, accredited laboratories. To be CertiPUR-US-certified, the foams must be made without ozone depleters; PBDEs, TDCPP, TCEP and certain other flame retardants; formaldehyde; mercury, lead and other heavy metals; prohibited phthalates regulated by the CPSC; and are low VOC emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million). If the foams meet the rigorous and comprehensive guidelines, they must be re-certified after six months in the first year and annually thereafter.
To take the online course, visit www.certipur.us/certificatecourse.
CertiPUR-US is a registered trademark of Alliance for Flexible Polyurethane Foam, Inc.
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