UL Streamlines Global Market Certification for Portable LED Luminaires

-- First-of-its-kind program to help manufacturers meet both North American and international standards

NORTHBROOK, Illinois, May 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- UL, a global safety science leader, introduced today a new global certification program for portable luminaires, the most popular type of LED luminaires.

This is the first time a certified testing laboratory has created a single set of samples and tests that combine the requirements of both North American and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards that have not been formally harmonized as part of the CB Scheme, an international network of product certification organizations.

According to a McKinsey study, LED lighting will grow 840 percent globally from 2010 to 2020, with LEDs projected to account for 60 percent of the total lighting market. UL is working with manufacturers on efficient testing and certification processes to help meet consumer demand while maintaining product safety levels.

In addition to the streamlined process, the program permits the substitution of certain components and the alteration of various aesthetic elements in many luminaire designs. This allows manufacturers to update their product lines more quickly to meet changing customer tastes.  

"Through its worldwide network of offices and labs, UL can offer global market access to testing and certification for manufacturers and distributors of portable LED luminaires," said Michael Shulman, a UL principal engineer. "This new initiative, in combination with a recent redesign and simplification of a follow-up service program for portable luminaires, underscores UL's commitment to the lighting industry."

UL conducts safety certification and performance testing to help meet applicable component standards and regulations in the lighting industry. More information about UL Lighting services is available at http://industries.ul.com/lighting.

About UL

UL is a premier global independent safety science company that has championed progress for 120 years. Its more than 10,000 professionals are guided by the UL mission to promote safe working and living environments for all people. UL uses research and standards to continually advance and meet ever-evolving safety needs. We partner with businesses, manufacturers, trade associations and international regulatory authorities to bring solutions to a more complex global supply chain. For more information about our certification, testing, inspection, advisory and education services, visit http://www.UL.com.

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