Testing electrical equipment is important not only for user safety but also for the functionality and longevity of the equipment. A malfunctioning electrical device can cause serious risks, such as electric shocks, short circuits or even fires. Testing ensures that the device meets electrical safety requirements and operates reliably in all situations.
For an electrical device to be marketed and sold at all, it must meet international and national standards, such as IEC and EN standards. Testing by an impartial third party is an essential part of product certification, like FI certification. Environmental testing can be used to ensure that the device not only meets technical requirements, but also withstands real operating conditions – whether it is frost, humidity or mechanical stress.
What is environmental testing used to determine?
An electrical device must be safe and comply with standards, but its reliable operation under different conditions is equally important. Testing devices specifically designed for outdoor use requires, for example, damp heat tests, freezing tests, and other functional tests in extreme conditions.
The level of water and dust resistance of the device's casing can be verified with IP testing and impact resistance with IK testing. In addition, the mechanical durability of wiring and connectors, as well as the safety and performance of batteries, can be tested. Accelerated life cycle tests can identify potential weaknesses in the product, which helps to develop even more durable and long-lasting solutions. When these weaknesses are identified and resolved before the product is launched on the market, customers receive more durable and well-functioning devices that they can be satisfied with.
How can SGS help?
We offer a wide range of testing services for different needs. We have, among others:
- Several environmental cabinets, which can simulate a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions
- IP classes (dust and water tightness) and IK class (impact resistance) testing capabilities
- Salt spray chamber for corrosion testing, which evaluates the durability of materials and coatings
- Fire-safe testing environment, suitable for safe testing of devices containing batteries, such as lighting and household appliances
We can also carry out several MIL-STD-810 environmental tests corresponding to IEC standards.
FI certification – a sign of reliability
When purchasing a device, how can a consumer ensure that the device is tested, safe and durable? When an electrical device meets the technical and safety requirements set for it, it can be granted FI certification, which entitles it to use the FI mark on the product and in its marketing. The FI mark is an indication that the device has been tested, is safe and is suitable for the demanding environmental conditions of Finland.
Testing and certification tell both customers and authorities that a device is of high quality, safe and reliable, especially in challenging operating environments. Testing is not just about meeting requirements – it is an investment in the quality, safety and longevity of the product.
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
