If your electrical or electronic product will be sold, installed, or used in the United States, certification to UL safety standards is often required or expected by inspectors, retailers, and customers.
F2 Labs provides certification testing to UL standards, NRTL safety evaluations, and U.S. Listing services to help manufacturers demonstrate compliance with nationally recognized safety standards.
Through our partnership of over 20 years with an OSHA-recognized Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), we help manufacturers move efficiently from prototype to certified product with fewer redesigns, fewer delays, and a clear path to approval by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). As a third-party test lab, F2 Labs is able to offer more guidance/consulting than if we were the NRTL. When working directly with an NRTL, there is a conflict of interest so they will not offer troubleshooting, consulting, or assistance with any discrepancies that arise.
We also maintain the Listing File from beginning to end – we do not hand off your project at the end of the evaluation/test. It is our inspectors who perform the inspections in most cases. Any File revisions or new products would be handled directly with F2 Labs.
UL Standards Testing and Certification Services
F2 Labs supports manufacturers throughout the entire U.S. certification process, from early design review to final certification documentation.
Our engineers perform the following to the applicable UL standards:
- Preliminary Design Review
- Construction Review
- Physical testing
- Certification evaluations for UL and CSA standards
Once testing is complete, certification can be issued through our NRTL partner, who is an OSHA-recognized testing and certification organization.
This allows manufacturers to obtain U.S. listings, Limited Production Certification and U.S. Field labeling authorization to the UL standards.
Understanding the OSHA NRTL Certification Requirement
Many electrical products used in workplaces require third-party safety certification from a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).
The OSHA NRTL Program recognizes independent organizations that test and certify products to consensus safety standards such as UL standards.
Manufacturers can choose any approved NRTL for certification.
F2 Labs partners with an OSHA-accredited NRTL, to provide certification to UL and CSA safety standards.
Our engineers perform the testing and evaluation while our NRTL partner reviews the results and authorizes the use of their certification mark.
United States Certification Pathways
Depending on your product type, installation environment, and manufacturing volume, there are different certification pathways.
1. Field Label Evaluation (FLE)
A Field Label Evaluation (FLE) is used for custom or limited installations.
The evaluation occurs at the installation site, where the product is tested against the applicable UL standard.
Once compliance is confirmed, serialized certification labels are applied to the approved units.
Field evaluations are commonly used for:
- Custom industrial equipment
- One-off machinery
- Limited installations.
2. Limited Production Certification (LPC)
A Limited Production Certification is designed for manufacturers producing small quantities of equipment.
Unlike full listing programs, LPC:
- Does not require ongoing inspection fees
- Applies only to a limited number of units
- Requires verification of each unit before labeling
This option is often used for specialized equipment, prototypes, or custom manufacturing runs.
3. U.S. Listing Certification (Production Products)
A U.S. Listing program is designed for products that will be manufactured in ongoing production.
The process includes:
- Product safety testing
- Quality system review
- Initial factory inspection
- Ongoing follow-up inspections
This pathway allows manufacturers to apply an NRTL certification mark to all compliant production units.
Typical Steps to Certifying/Listing Products to UL and/or CSA Standards
- Product Testing and Evaluation: Engineers review product samples, schematics, and documentation and perform testing according to the applicable UL or CSA safety standards.
- Factory Inspection: For listing programs, an inspection of the manufacturing facility verifies the ability to consistently produce compliant products.
- Certification Authorization: Once compliance is verified, the NRTL authorizes the use of the certification mark or listing label.
- Ongoing Follow-Up Inspections: Periodic inspections ensure that products remain compliant throughout production.
Products Commonly Tested for UL Certification
F2 Labs performs certification testing to UL standards for a wide range of electrical and electronic products, including:
- Information Technology Equipment (ITE)
- Scientific and laboratory equipment
- Industrial electrical equipment
- Test and measurement equipment
- Lighting products
- Household appliances
- Power tools
- Audio and video equipment
- Medical equipment
- Electrical control equipment
- Laboratory instrumentation
If you are unsure which UL standard applies to your product, F2 Labs can help identify the correct certification pathway.
Why Manufacturers Choose F2 Labs for Certification to UL Standards
Engineering Guidance Throughout the Certification Process
We help manufacturers define:
- applicable UL safety standards
- certification route
- testing scope
- documentation requirements
- certification timelines
This allows projects to move forward with fewer surprises.
Certification Expertise That Reduces Delays
Successful certification requires coordination between:
- engineering evaluation
- compliance documentation
- regulatory requirements
- NRTL certification review
Our engineers guide manufacturers through every stage of the process.
30+ Years of Product Safety Testing Experience
F2 Labs has more than 30 years of experience in electrical product safety testing and regulatory compliance.
Our accredited laboratories support manufacturers across multiple industries.
Start the U.S. Certification Process
If you are preparing to certify your product to UL the standards through NRTL product Certification, Field Labeling, or Limited Production Certification, F2 Labs can help. Our engineers can quickly determine:
- the applicable UL standard
- the best certification pathway
- estimated testing timelines
- documentation requirements
Request a quote or a call with one of our experienced team members today.
UL testing FAQs
What is UL certification (U.S. Listing)?
U.S. certification, also often referred to as “UL” certification, is a product safety certification demonstrating that a product complies with a specific safety standard(s) published by UL Standards & Engagement. Certification typically involves third-party testing by an accredited laboratory and approval by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) authorized by OSHA.
However, an important and often misunderstood point is:
UL develops standards — but UL is not the only organization that can certify products to those standards.
The same is true for CSA – “CSA” certification (Canadian Listing) refers to product safety certification demonstrating compliance with a standard published by CSA Group (Canadian Standards Association), but CSA is not the only organization that can certify products to the CSA standards (Canadian Listing). The list of laboratories to certify products to the CSA standards is accredited by the Standards Council of Canada.
We partner with an OSHA and Standards Council of Canada (SCC) accredited NRTL, who is also one of the world’s largest test houses, in order to provide our clients with certification to the UL and/or CSA standards. F2 Labs performs all testing and factory inspections (if the manufacturing facility is located in the U.S., otherwise our partner will perform them to keep costs down). The NRTL reviews and signs off on our reports so that manufacturers can use their certification mark.
Do I need a U.S. Listing to sell in the United States?
Not every product legally requires it, but many electrical products used in workplaces require approval by an OSHA-recognized NRTL, and many customers, “big-box” retailers or inspectors expect to see a recognized mark or equivalent evidence of compliance on the product.
What is the difference between a field evaluation and a listing?
A field evaluation applies to a limited number of units at the installation site. A listing program supports ongoing production and typically includes factory inspections and follow-up inspections as part of continued compliance.
How long does the U.S./Canadian Listing process take?
Timing depends on product complexity, readiness of documentation, component choices, and how quickly design issues are addressed. A quick scoping review is usually the best way to estimate your specific timeline. Contact us for more information.
What do you need from me to start the U.S./Canadian Listing evaluation?
Typically: a product sample (or samples), and the following documentation:
- Battery protection: battery circuit diagram, if applicable
- Component Datasheets: datasheets of the critical components.
- Component Form: complete this form detailing your critical components (manufacturer, part#, ratings/specifications, approvals)
- Copy of W-9 form: Request for Taxpayer Identification form to be completed.
- Elect Schematics: a drawing detailing circuit design that uses symbols to identify components and interconnecting lines to display the electrical continuity of a circuit.
- Labels Markings: drawings of all labels or markings on the product (ratings label, warning markings, etc.) in .pdf or .jpeg format.
- Manual: manual(s) describing how to set up, operate, and maintain this device
- Mechanical drawings: drawings of a device showing dimensions, layout, etc.
- Photos: internal and external photos of your product, to include critical components, labels, connectors, etc.
- Pneu hyd drawings: drawings of your pneumatic or hydraulic system, if applicable
- Set Up & Disassembly Instructions: how to configure the EUT to operate continuously, drawing the highest current/maximum power, and how to take the test sample apart.
- Trace layout artwork: If applicable – only needed for unapproved circuit boards that contain mains voltages (Gerber file format – top and bottom layers only)
If you are in the early stages of product development, we can start a Preliminary Design Review to prevent costly redesigns later.
Can you help if I do not know the right UL standard?
Yes. We can review your product category, electrical ratings, intended environment, and end-use to identify the most applicable UL standard(s), then map the certification route.
The standard for Coin and Currency Changers and Actuators
- UL 763The standard for Motor-Operated Commercial Food Preparing Machines
- UL 796The standard for Printed-Wiring Boards
- UL 813The standard for Commercial Audio Equipment
- UL 817The standard for Cord Sets and Power-Supply Cords
- UL 826The standard for Household Electric Clocks
- UL 840The standard for Insulation Coordination Including Clearances and Creepage Distances for Electrical Equipment
- UL 858The standard for Household Electric Ranges
- UL 859The standard for Household Electric Personal Grooming Appliances
- UL 863The standard for Time-Indicating and -Recording Appliances
- UL 867The standard for Electrostatic Air Cleaners
- UL 869AReference Standard for Service Equipment
- UL 873The standard for Temperature-Indicating and -Regulating Equipment
- UL 913The standard for Intrinsically Safe Apparatus and Associated Apparatus for Use in Class I, II, III, Division 1, Hazardous (Classified) Locations
- UL 916The standard for Energy Management Equipment
- UL 917The standard for Clock-Operated Switches
- UL 921Commercial Dishwashers
- UL 923The standard for Microwave Cooking Appliances
- UL 924Standard for Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment
- UL 935The standard for Fluorescent-Lamp Ballasts
- UL 961The standard for Electric Hobby and Sports Equipment
- UL 982The standard for Motor-Operated Household Food Preparing Machines
- UL 984Hermetic Refrigerant Motor-Compressors
- UL 987The standard for Stationary and Fixed Electric Tools
- UL 998Humidifiers
- UL 1004The standard for Rotating Electrical Machines – General Requirements
- UL 1005The standard for Safety Electric Flatirons
- UL 1008Transfer Switch Equipment
- UL 1012The standard for Power Units Other Than Class 2
- UL 1017Vacuum Cleaners, Blower Cleaners, and Household Floor Finishing Machines
- UL 1018The standard for Electric Aquarium Equipment
- UL 1026The standard for Household Electric Cooking and Food Serving Appliances
- UL 1028The standard for Safety Hair Clipping and Shaving Appliances
- UL 1029The standard for High-Intensity-Discharge Lamp Ballasts
- UL 1042The standard for Electric Baseboard Heating Equipment
- UL 1069The standard for Hospital Signaling and Nurse Call Equipment
- UL 1082The standard for Household Electric Coffee Makers and Brewing-Type Appliances
- UL 1083Household Electric Skillets and Frying-Type Appliances
- UL 1086The standard for Household Trash Compactors
- UL 1088Temporary Lighting Strings
- UL 1206The standard for Electric Commercial Clothes-Washing Equipment
- UL 1230Standard for Amateur Movie Lights
- UL 1236The standard for Battery Chargers for Charging Engine-Starter Batteries
- UL 1244Standard for Safety Electrical and Electronic Measuring
- UL 1261The standard for Electric Water Heaters for Pools and Tubs
- UL 1262The standard for Safety Laboratory Equipment
- UL 1278The standard for Movable and Wall- or Ceiling-Hung Electric Room Heaters
- UL 1286The standard for Office Furnishings
- UL 1310The standard for Class 2 Power Units
- UL 1418The standard for Safety Cathode Ray Tubes
- UL 1431The standard for Personal Hygiene and Health Care Appliances
- UL 1433The standard for Safety control centers for changing message type electric signs
- UL 1445The standard for Safety Electric Water Bed Heaters
- UL 1447The standard for Electric Lawn Mowers
- UL 1448The standard for Safety Electric Hedge Trimmers
- UL 1459The standard for Safety Telephone Equipment
- UL 1472Solid-State Dimming Controls
- UL 1492Audio-Video Products and Accessories
- UL 1561Standard for Dry-Type General Purpose and Power Transformers
- UL 1562The standard for Transformers, Distribution, Dry-Type – Over 600 Volts
- UL 1563The standard for Electric Spas, Equipment Assemblies, and Associated Equipment
- UL 1564The standard for Industrial Battery Chargers
- UL 1573The standard for Stage and Studio Luminaires and Connector Strips
- UL 1574Standard for Track Lighting Systems
- UL 1585The standard for Safety Class 2 and Class 3 Transformers
- UL 1594The standard for Sewing and Cutting Machines
- UL 1598Luminaires
- UL 1604Standard for Safety Electrical Equipment For Use In Class I And II, Division 2, And Class III Hazardous (Classified) Locations
- UL 1638Visible Signaling Devices for Fire Alarm and Signaling Systems, Including Accessories
- UL 1647The standard for Motor-Operated Massage and Exercise Machines
- UL 1727The standard for Commercial Electric Personal Grooming Appliances
- UL 1786Direct Plug-In Nightlights
- UL 1838The standard for Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Systems
- UL 1993Self-Ballasted Lamps and Lamp Adapters
- UL 1995Heating and Cooling Equipment
- UL 2044The standard for Commercial Closed-Circuit Television Equipment
- UL 2157Electrical Clothes Washing Machines and Extractors
- UL 2158Electric Clothes Dryers
- UL 2161The standard for Neon Transformers and Power Supplies
- UL 2305The standard for Exhibition Display Units, Fabrication, and Installation
- UL 2601-1The standard for Safety Medical Electrical Equipment
- UL 3044The standard for Safety Surveillance Closed Circuit Television Equipment
- UL 3111-1Standard for Safety Electrical Measuring and Test Equipment Part 1: General Requirements
- UL 6500The standard for Audio/Video and Musical Instrument Apparatus for Household, Commercial, and Similar General Use
- UL 8750Standard for Light Emitting Diode (LED) Equipment for Use in Lighting Products
- UL 61010A-2-10Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-010: Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for the heating of materials
- UL 61010A-2-20Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-020: Particular requirements for laboratory centrifuges
- UL 61010A-2-41Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2 – 41: Particular requirements for autoclaves using steam for the treatment of medicals, and for laboratory processes
- UL 61010A-2-42Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2 – 42:Particular requirements for autoclaves and sterilizers using toxic gas for the treatment of medical materials and for laboratory processes
- UL 61010A-2-51Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-051: Particular requirements for laboratory equipment for mixing and stirring
- UL 61010A-2-61Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-061: Particular requirements for laboratory atomic spectrometers with thermal atomization and ionization
- UL 61010B-1Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use – Part 1: General Requirements
- UL 61010B-2-31 WithdrawnSafety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-031: Particular requirements for hand-held probe assemblies for electrical measurement and test
- UL 61010B-2-32Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – Part 2-032: Particular requirements for hand-held and hand-manipulated current sensors for electrical test and measurement
- UL 61010C-1Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use – Part 1: General Requirements
- UL 60730-1AThe standard for Safety Automatic Electrical Controls for Household And Similar Use, Part 1: General Requirements
- UL 60730-2-3Standard for Automatic Electrical Controls for Household and Similar Use; Part 2: Particular Requirements for Thermal Protectors for Ballasts for Tubular Fluorescent Lamps
- UL 60730-2-4Standard for Automatic Electrical Controls for Household and Similar Use; Part 2: Particular Requirements for Thermal Motor Protectors for Motor-Compressors of Hermetic and Semi-Hermetic Type
- UL 60730-2-16AAutomatic Electrical Controls for Household and Similar Use; Part 2: Particular Requirements for Automatic Electrical Water Level Controls
- UL 62368-1Audio/video, information and communication technology equipment – Part 1: Safety requirements
