ETL vs UL Listed – What Is ETL Certification, Approval?

When speaking about data center furniture, the issue of safety is paramount since network hardware is expensive and responsible for valuable data storage. Thus, the safety level directly affects the durability of IT systems and the preservation of digital information. This is why furniture certification is a mandatory requirement for both manufacturers and consumers.

Several types of certifications exist in the network industry. UL and ETL are some of the most reputable signs of quality. Understanding their differences helps manufacturers introduce their products correctly, and consumers make informed choices. This is why it’s important to realize the difference between UL-listed and ETL-listed when picking suitable furniture pieces for data center accommodation.

What is UL Listed?

Before we get down to the comparison of ETL listing vs UL listing, let’s clarify what both standards mean. UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is one of the oldest and most respected product testing organizations, founded in 1894. The organization creates new standards for the industry and performs tests for safety compliance. During the history of its existence, the organization has introduced over 1500 standards.

«UL Listed» means the product has been tested and meets specific safety standards. UL tests for potential risks like electrical hazards, fire, and mechanical safety. Household appliances, electronics, and industrial equipment are usually UL-certified to guarantee that products are safe. Recently, the organization has expanded its sphere of testing to eco-friendly goods, embracing sustainable products, recycling systems, renewable energies, etc. When consumers see products with the «UL Listed» mark, they are confident that these items are highly resistant to mechanical impacts and external factors, like our UL-certified PDU-06SUL.

UL Label Guidelines

To ensure reliable communication with consumers, specific requirements are set for labeling products. In particular, UL labels must follow the following guidelines to ensure clarity and authenticity:

1. The label must be visible. Consumers should not experience trouble when seeking the label on a product, i.e. it should be placed in a well-visible place.
2. The label must be legible. The way how and what to write on the label is documented and standardized. Thus, the label should comply with the accepted norm. Namely, the label should contain the following information: UL in a circle symbol, the word «Listed» below the symbol, the product name, and the serial number or alphanumeric control number issued to the manufacturer.
3. The label must be durable. Manufacturers must guarantee that the label will stick reliably and stay on the product surface throughout its service period.
4. Each UL label includes a unique identifier or code that allows consumers to verify its authenticity through UL’s database.

Manufacturers are responsible for adhering to these guidelines to retain their certification. If some mentioned guidelines are violated, it means that the label is not authentic, and the product is considered uncertified. Thus, manufacturers should pay particular attention to this guidance.

What is ETL listed?

Now, let’s move on to the second safety standard and consider what is ETL listed. ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories) is a certification provided by Intertek, a global leader in product testing. The organization was established in 1896 by Thomas Edison. Later, it became part of Intertek Corporation. Unlike UL, the organization does not issue new standards but only tests products for existing norms and standards of the corresponding industry.

«ETL Listed» means the product has undergone testing and meets the same safety standards as UL. ETL certification is based on standards like those set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL). This certification is widely used for such products as lighting, HVAC systems, electronics, and power tools.

ETL Label Guidelines

Like UL stickers, ETL labels must also meet strict requirements to ensure compliance. Standard requirements are set for labels. Manufacturers are obliged to satisfy the following guidelines:

1. Clear visibility. The label should be easily visible, so it’s necessary to place it on the front side of a product. Customers and users should catch the label at first glance.
2. Resistance to wear. The label should preserve its visibility and perfect appearance throughout its service life. Thus, it should be made of durable materials that are resistant to tear abrasion, and other mechanical impacts.
3. Identifying information about the product and certification. Due to this data, authenticity can be verified using Intertek’s online resources, allowing customers and regulators to confirm the validity of the certification.

When considering what is ETL certification vs UL, note that the ETL label must include the following details:

• ETL certification mark. A clear indication that the product has been tested and certified by Intertek.
• control number. A unique number is issued by Intertek to identify the specific certification and allow verification.
• standard reference. A statement of the safety or performance standards against which the product was tested (e.g., ANSI, UL, or CSA standards).

Now, you understand what ETL listed means and realize the specifics of certification. So, we can switch to the comparison of ETL versus UL standards.

UL vs ETL Labels

Both standards are similar in their purpose and significance and aimed at testing product safety and guaranteeing its readiness for use. However, each has its specifics, and the key differences between ETL listed vs UL listed include:

1. Testing and certification processes. UL tests products directly in its laboratories and performs periodic factory inspections. ETL relies on the same safety standards (such as ANSI, UL, or CSA) but allows third-party testing as long as the test results meet Intertek’s certification criteria.
2. Cost of certification. UL is generally considered more expensive due to its established brand and testing procedures. ETL is often a more affordable option for manufacturers while providing equivalent safety assurance.
3. Flexibility in testing locations. UL typically requires testing to be conducted in UL facilities. ETL offers more flexibility by allowing testing in third-party labs that meet Intertek’s criteria, potentially reducing costs and timelines.

In conclusion, note that both standards provide equal safety guarantees for rated products. Now, when you understand the UL and ETL certification meaning, it’s impossible to say that one of the certificates is better than another. They both are highly reputable and trusted. Products approved by these standards are guaranteed to be secure and durable.

However, when it comes to the difference in ETL vs UL rating, you should remember that the latter creates its own standards for industries, while the first one is not engaged in this activity. ETL only provides tests but does not issue new standards. Still, it takes an advantage over UL in terms of flexibility and cost of testing. This is why each option has its pros and cons and provides an excellent foundation for product approval.