Is Your Portable Sauna Tent Flame Resistant? CPAI-84 Explained

When searching for the perfect portable sauna, home sauna, or garden sauna, many people overlook the importance of flame resistance. With the increasing awareness of the risks posed by fires, particularly in forested areas, ensuring your sauna tent meets safety standards is more important than ever. If you plan to use a sauna in an outdoor setting, especially with a wood-burning stove, it's crucial to confirm that the tent complies with the CPAI-84 fire retardancy standard.

What is CPAI-84?

CPAI-84 is a testing method specifically designed to confirm the flame resistance of fabrics used in manufacturing camping tents. This standard, established in 1976 by the Canvas Products Association International (now the International Fabrics Association International), helps protect consumers by reducing the risk of accidents caused by flames near tents.

While not federally mandated, several U.S. states, including California, New York, and Massachusetts, require tents sold within them to meet the CPAI-84 standard. This ensures a baseline of safety for tents used near open flames, whether in public or private settings.

Why CPAI-84 Matters for Your Portable Sauna

Ensuring your portable sauna meets CPAI-84 standards is essential, especially if you're using it in environments where flames might be present. Whether you're using your sauna at home, in the garden, or out camping, compliance with these standards can offer peace of mind and reduce the risk of fire-related accidents.

The Testing Process

CPAI-84 testing involves evaluating the flame resistance of tent materials in three conditions:

1. Original State (New): The fabric is tested in its brand-new condition.

2. Weathered: The fabric is exposed to simulated weathering to test durability.

3. After Leaching: The fabric is subjected to a leaching process to simulate wear and tear.

During the test, a flame is applied to the fabric for four seconds, and the damage length is measured. To pass, the damage length must not exceed 255 mm, indicating that the fabric is sufficiently flame-resistant.

How to Ensure Your Portable Sauna Meets CPAI-84 Standards

When purchasing a portable sauna, always check with the supplier to ensure that the materials used are CPAI-84 certified. Reputable suppliers will have documentation proving compliance, which they should readily provide. This certification ensures that the sauna is made from materials that have been rigorously tested for flame resistance.

At PortaSauna, we prioritise safety and quality. Our portable saunas are designed with CPAI-84 certified materials, ensuring that you can enjoy your sauna experience with confidence.

In summary, when investing in a portable sauna, prioritising flame resistance is crucial for safety. By ensuring your sauna meets CPAI-84 standards, you can enjoy the benefits of a home or garden sauna while minimizing fire risks. For more detailed information about CPAI-84 standards, please refer to the official CPAI-84 documentation.

Stay safe and enjoy your sauna experience with peace of mind!