Unlock Global Markets with Product Testing and Certification

Thanks to product testing and certification manufacturers gain the following benefits:

• Access to international markets 
• Increased visibility, access to more consumers and business
• Diversifying market opportunities
• Revenue growth 
• Reduced risk
• Efficient utilization of the existing factory, machines, and staff
• Expanding the lifecycle of mature products

What is the Process to Undergo for Product Testing and Certification?

The safety evaluation process begins with defining a standard to which the product must comply. The standard provides requirements specific to the product, including specifications, guidelines and quality assurances that help ensure materials and products are appropriate and safe for their setting and purpose. 

Safety testing confirms that products are compliant with applicable safety standards like American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Underwriters Laboratories (UL), ASTM, CSA Group, European Standards (EN), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The testing and certification process can be rigorous, but it provides peace of mind to all parties involved in installing, inspecting, and using electrical/mechanical products and systems. That is why it is important to understand the process that electrical/mechanical products and systems undergo when tested and certified. 

Testing must be done by an approved, accredited lab who identifies the applicable standards. Manufacturers provide the lab with samples that represent the product as it is to be manufactured. The lab evaluates the samples and compiles a test report illustrating compliance or non-compliance to the standard. 

Compliant products may then be eligible for certification by a certification body (CB). Non-compliant products must be redesigned and retested after issues have been addressed. 

Around the world, there are governing bodies who implement product safety and performance standards. Most of these derive from international standards drafted by standard development organizations (SDOs), made up of experts from their respective industries. Requirements vary based on industry and product type. 

Manufacturers can also elect to have products assessed to voluntary standards for performance, quality, or other safety considerations. These assessments, whether required or voluntary, form the basis of the testing and certification process.