Why Your Electrical Products Should Be Certified?
Before you make any new purchases of electrical or lighting products, it is important to make sure they have met the safety standards and requirements set by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This department oversees and administers all safety and health regulations pertaining to manufacturer’s products.
They also qualify independent laboratories that test products for safety and quality assurance. These labs are referred to as NRTL’s, or Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories.
The most recognized testing lab is Underwriters Laboratory, or UL. A product with this mark signifies that it has undergone extensive testing, and has met the minimum safety requirements to sell to the public.
Another certification mark is ETL, which stands for Electrical Testing Labs. This testing lab is administered by Intertek, a global quality assurance provider. Like UL, this testing lab also ensures that before a product goes on the shelf, it adheres to high quality safety standards. Consider both ETL and UL marks like an insurance that your product will not blow up, or cause harm to anyone.
What if I purchase a product that is not ETL or UL listed?
Purchasing electrical products that are not ETL and UL certified can be dangerous, cause injury, or even worse, death! Would you buy a house that did not pass inspection or a car that had been recalled?
Before you make any product purchases for that new building or renovation project, please make sure your products have the stamp of quality of assurance.
“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.” -William A. Foster
Recommended Reading
Product certifications tell you more about the quality and safety of the products you buy. Read our guide to learn about each of the certifications and make an educated purchase.
Created in 1992, ENERGY STAR represents the official standard for energy efficiency. The EPA uses specific guidelines to determine which products qualify for ENERGY STAR.
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