Understanding UK fire regulations is essential for accommodation teams.
Here’s a clear, simple guide to ensure your student mattresses meet legal standards.
What Is Crib 5?
Crib 5 refers to the BS 7177:2008 +A1:2011 fire safety standard required for:
- hotels
- care homes
- student accommodation
- HMOs
- hospitality environments
It ensures mattresses resist a much larger ignition source than domestic Crib 1 mattresses.
Why It Matters in Student Accommodation
Residents have:
- electrical items
- hairdryers
- straighteners
- microwaves
- portable heaters
These increase fire risks.
Crib 5 mattresses reduce flame spread, giving staff and residents more time to respond.
How to Verify If a Mattress Is Crib 5
Check for:
- law label
- manufacturer fire certification
- compliance documentation
- supplier verification
If a mattress cannot prove Crib 5 compliance, it cannot legally be used in student accommodation.
Common Problems Accommodation Teams Face
❌ Retail mattresses with no proof of compliance
❌ Mattresses losing fire resistance due to poor-quality materials
❌ Lack of documentation during inspections
Always choose mattresses from a reliable contract supplier with proper certification.
Final Thoughts
Fire compliance isn’t optional — and Crib 5 is the minimum standard.
A compliant contract mattress protects residents, your building, your insurance, and your team.