UL
As a consumer, what does the UL Mark mean to me?
The
UL Mark is one of the most recognized, accepted and trusted symbols in
the world. It means that a not-for-profit, independent laboratory has
tested samples of products to safety requirements and conducts periodic
checks of manufacturers' facilities. It says something about the
products you may purchase; it's your one assurance that steps have been
taken in the interest of safety.
Who is behind the Mark?
The
UL Mark stands for Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), a
not-for-profit, non-governmental organization that was formed in 1894
to help reduce injury, loss of life and property damage. To that end,
UL scientifically investigates and tests thousands of types of
products, materials, constructions and systems to evaluate electric,
fire and casualty hazards; burglar resistance; or ability to detect,
control or limit fires. Behind the UL Mark is a staff of more than
5,000 engineers, scientists, chemists, technicians, field
representatives and support staff -- a team dedicated to working for a
safer world.
Why is the UL Mark so important?
Third-party
product safety certification is important. An independent, technically
expert organization that doesn't have a financial interest in the
product's ultimate profitability is needed to determine whether
reasonably foreseeable risks associated with the product's use have
been eliminated or minimized. UL's not-for-profit, independent status
allow it to be unbiased in determining whether or not a product meets
recognized safety standards.
What happens after a product gets the UL Mark?
Once
the product earns the UL Mark, UL doesn't forget about it. UL field
representatives located worldwide make periodic, unannounced visits to
each manufacturer's production facility to help countercheck that
products continue to meet UL requirements. Even after the initial
product evaluation, UL checks samples of the product again and again. A
product must continue to meet safety requirements in order to bear the
UL Mark. If a field representative determines that a product no longer
complies, the UL Mark is removed. This Follow-Up Services program helps
protect the integrity of the UL Mark. In fact, this rigorous follow-up
program is part of what makes UL so unique.
Who uses UL's services?
Manufacturers
submit products to UL for testing and safety certification on a
voluntary basis. Use of UL is not required by law. But most
manufacturers are concerned with the safety of their products and they
know safety-conscious and concerned consumers look for the UL Mark on
products they buy.
Is the UL Mark all there is to product safety?
No.
You must do your part, too. UL helps reduce the potential risks of
accidents by investigating products for safety and making factory
follow-up visits before those products reach you, the consumer. But any
product can become unsafe if it's abused or used contrary to a
manufacturer's instructions. Many product-related injuries are caused
by carelessness or improper usage. So, be sure to read care and
maintenance instructions and warnings and follow them carefully. Be
alert when using any product, and always use common sense to help keep
you and your family safe.
*UL is a trademark of Underwriters Labratories
