As a consumer, what does the UL Mark mean to me?

The UL Mark is one of the most recognized, accepted and trusted symbols in the world. It means that a not-for-profit, independent laboratory has tested samples of products to safety requirements and conducts periodic checks of manufacturers' facilities. It says something about the products you may purchase; it's your one assurance that steps have been taken in the interest of safety.

Who is behind the Mark?

The UL Mark stands for Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization that was formed in 1894 to help reduce injury, loss of life and property damage. To that end, UL scientifically investigates and tests thousands of types of products, materials, constructions and systems to evaluate electric, fire and casualty hazards; burglar resistance; or ability to detect, control or limit fires. Behind the UL Mark is a staff of more than 5,000 engineers, scientists, chemists, technicians, field representatives and support staff -- a team dedicated to working for a safer world.

Why is the UL Mark so important?

Third-party product safety certification is important. An independent, technically expert organization that doesn't have a financial interest in the product's ultimate profitability is needed to determine whether reasonably foreseeable risks associated with the product's use have been eliminated or minimized. UL's not-for-profit, independent status allow it to be unbiased in determining whether or not a product meets recognized safety standards.

What happens after a product gets the UL Mark?

Once the product earns the UL Mark, UL doesn't forget about it. UL field representatives located worldwide make periodic, unannounced visits to each manufacturer's production facility to help countercheck that products continue to meet UL requirements. Even after the initial product evaluation, UL checks samples of the product again and again. A product must continue to meet safety requirements in order to bear the UL Mark. If a field representative determines that a product no longer complies, the UL Mark is removed. This Follow-Up Services program helps protect the integrity of the UL Mark. In fact, this rigorous follow-up program is part of what makes UL so unique.

Who uses UL's services?

Manufacturers submit products to UL for testing and safety certification on a voluntary basis. Use of UL is not required by law. But most manufacturers are concerned with the safety of their products and they know safety-conscious and concerned consumers look for the UL Mark on products they buy.

Is the UL Mark all there is to product safety?

No. You must do your part, too. UL helps reduce the potential risks of accidents by investigating products for safety and making factory follow-up visits before those products reach you, the consumer. But any product can become unsafe if it's abused or used contrary to a manufacturer's instructions. Many product-related injuries are caused by carelessness or improper usage. So, be sure to read care and maintenance instructions and warnings and follow them carefully. Be alert when using any product, and always use common sense to help keep you and your family safe.