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