Selling UL Labels: Understanding the Gauntlet of UL Testing

Among the many types of products available to resellers are UL labels. UL labels are applied to a variety of products with electrical cords and are designed to ensure consumer confidence and safety. Among the many products that carry UL labels are electrical components, electronics, household appliances, lighting equipment, cooking equipment, and control boxes, among many others.

For distributors, UL labels are high-volume, high-profit products. Once you sell into these accounts, they become print annuities, or products that repeat over and over. This means you are continuing to make money with little additional effort.

In previous blog posts, we provided an overview of UL labels and how they differ from electrical labels. In this post, we want to take a closer look at the types of tests required in order to obtain a UL certification.

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Watch our video blog on UL labels here.

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Passing the Gauntlet of UL Testing

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a globally recognized safety certification organization that conducts testing and certification for a wide range of products. The specific tests required for UL certification can vary depending on the type of product being certified. However, here are some common types of tests that products might undergo to obtain UL certification:

Electrical Safety Tests: These tests evaluate the product’s electrical components and wiring for potential hazards such as electrical shock, fire, and short circuits. This can involve tests like dielectric strength testing, insulation resistance testing, and ground continuity testing.

Flammability Testing: Products are tested for their resistance to catching fire, as well as their ability to self-extinguish if they do catch fire. This often includes tests like the UL 94 Flammability Test for plastics.

Mechanical Testing: Products undergo tests to assess their structural integrity and mechanical durability. This can include tests for impact resistance, stability, and more.

Environmental Testing: Depending on the product’s intended use, it might need to undergo environmental tests to ensure it can withstand specific conditions such as temperature variations, humidity, and exposure to chemicals.

Radiation Safety Testing: Products that emit radiation, such as medical devices, undergo tests to ensure they comply with safety regulations and emit radiation within safe limits.

Hazardous Substance Testing: Products are tested for the presence of hazardous substances such as lead, mercury, and other restricted materials. This is particularly important for electronics and electrical products.

Functionality Testing: Depending on the product’s purpose, functional tests might be performed to ensure that it operates as intended and meets specific performance criteria.

Security and Interference Testing: Devices that communicate wirelessly might undergo tests to ensure they don’t interfere with other electronic devices and are resistant to hacking and other security threats.

Noise Emission Testing: Products like appliances and machinery might be tested for noise emissions to ensure they meet acceptable noise level standards.

Durability Testing: Products can be subjected to simulated real-world usage to determine their durability and lifespan.

Marking and Labeling Review: UL also reviews the product’s labeling and markings to ensure they provide the necessary safety information and compliance details.

Testing Requirements Vary

It’s important to note that the specific tests required for UL certification will depend on factors such as the product’s category, its intended use, and any relevant safety standards or regulations. Manufacturers seeking UL certification typically work closely with UL engineers to determine the appropriate testing requirements for their products.

Wise is a UL Authorized Label Supplier with more than twenty years of experience as an industrial label manufacturer. Our familiarity in the UL inspection process in label manufacturing and our knowledge of materials allow us to help you offer the ideal label construction for your customers on a short lead time. Because UL continuously inspects our work, we assist companies in fully complying with UL’s requirements.

Want to learn more? Contact your RSM!