Summary – UL labels are critical for ensuring product safety, compliance, and market approval across industries. This article explains what UL labels mean, the types of certifications available, and why they matter for manufacturers and suppliers. It also explains how Lowry Solutions helps businesses simplify UL labeling with certified materials and expertise to protect products, reduce risks, and build customer trust.
Ever noticed how some products feel… trustworthy? It’s not just the brand name or the sleek design. Sometimes, it’s that small symbol tucked away on a label that turns an ordinary product into something you can rely on.
That mark is the UL label. It doesn’t shout for attention but carries the weight of global safety standards, rigorous lab tests, and decades of engineering expertise. Think of it as a silent passport that products carry to prove they are ready for the real world.
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UL Labels: The Safety Stamp Every Product Needs
Safety certifications are more than a formality for businesses that manufacture, distribute, or sell products. They help ensure your products meet required standards and stay compliant across different markets. The UL label is one of the most recognized marks for product safety. It shows that a product has undergone proper testing and meets specific safety requirements. Using the right UL-certified labeling materials can make a big difference for converters, printers, and OEMs. It helps avoid compliance issues, saves time, and controls costs.
A UL label shows that a product has been independently tested and certified by UL Solutions to meet strict safety standards. Depending on the product, this can include electrical safety, fire resistance, and mechanical performance. The UL mark helps businesses meet regulatory requirements, reduce liability, and build trust while offering a competitive edge in safety-focused industries.
In this blog, we will look at what the UL label stands for, why it’s crucial for businesses today, and how it helps ensure product safety, faster approvals, and stronger brand credibility over time.
What are UL Labels?
UL labels are safety certifications provided by Underwriters Laboratories. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a recognized security equipment, systems, and monitoring certification body. Its standards help reduce legal risks by ensuring compliance with safety requirements. UL sets specific criteria for every device, system, and monitoring center it certifies. In many areas, UL certification is required before a system is approved, and it can also lead to lower insurance premiums.
Types of UL Labels
UL labels come in different types depending on what they are used for. Each type shows that a product or part has been checked for safety in a specific way. There are two main types: UL Listed and UL Recognized. A UL-Listed label means that UL has tested the entire product and meets the required safety standards. A UL Recognized label means that a component or part has been tested and is safe to use within a larger system. Both labels confirm that safety standards have been checked, but they apply to different product parts.
Here are the main types of UL labels and what they mean:
UL Listed Label: Applied to finished products that have been fully tested and certified to meet all applicable UL safety standards. This label is typically found on standalone items ready for consumer or commercial use.
- UL Recognized Component Label:
Assigned to parts or components that meet safety requirements but are not complete products. These are intended to be used within a larger system or device. - UL Classified Label: Given to products that have been evaluated for specific hazards or regulatory needs, such as fire resistance or environmental conditions, rather than overall product safety.
- UL Enhanced and Smart Labels: Designed for digital use, these labels include features like QR codes or RFID for authentication, traceability, and access to real-time product data.
Each UL label falls under one of five specific Category Code Numbers (CCNs) within UL’s Marking and Labeling Systems. These categories define the type of label, its intended use, and how it’s evaluated:
- PGDQ2
This category covers printed labels manufactured by label printers or converters. These are typically die-cut, finished labels ready for application on products. - PGJI2
This includes both printed labels and unprinted label stock. These materials may be blank or preprinted with open areas and are sold in bulk rolls by label material suppliers or as die-cut labels by converters. - PGGU2
This category refers to raw materials used to produce labels, such as blank label stock, laminating adhesives, and overlaminates. These materials are supplied to converters and used to produce PGDQ2 and PGJI2 labels. - PGIM2
These are printed in-mold labels designed to be embedded directly into molded plastic during the molding process. They are manufactured by converters and sold as die-cut, finished labels. - PGIS2
This category includes labels, cord tags, and placards that are evaluated according to specific, less stringent UL end-product standards. Their use is limited to the specific product types covered by those standards.
Why UL Labels Matter for Product Safety?
You have probably seen the UL mark on equipment like circuit breakers, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, or home appliances. That small label means the product has been built and tested to meet specific safety and performance standards set by UL. But UL doesn’t always do the testing itself. Manufacturers are often allowed to test their products following UL’s guidelines, with regular check-ins to ensure everything stays on track.
So, why do so many businesses and regulators trust it? Here’s what makes UL certification valuable:
Trusted Testing Standards
When a product carries the UL mark, it has been tested against well-defined benchmarks. It shows that the product is reliable and performs as expected under normal conditions. That kind of assurance matters to buyers, inspectors, and regulators.
Built-in Safety Confidence
UL certification shows that a product meets established safety standards. If something goes wrong, it helps demonstrate that the issue wasn’t caused by faulty construction or low-quality components. This builds customer trust and offers legal protection for the business.
Stronger Product Value
When businesses invest in meeting UL standards, they often deliver higher-quality products. This helps them price their offerings confidently, stay competitive, and earn long-term customer loyalty. Buyers, in turn, feel more confident knowing they are purchasing something that meets trusted safety standards.
Fewer Headaches Later
UL-certified products tend to perform better and last longer, benefiting both manufacturers and customers. There’s less worry about failures, safety recalls, or costly repairs, which means fewer problems down the line.
UL Labeling Process
The UL labeling process ensures that products meet safety and performance standards. The process starts with submitting an application to UL, continues with rigorous product testing, and ends with a certification decision. If approved, the manufacturer can use the UL mark on their product and packaging, and UL may conduct follow-up inspections.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Application and Testing:
Manufacturers begin the process by applying to UL Solutions and submitting detailed product information. Based on the relevant safety standards, UL develops a custom testing plan.
Manufacturers then submit prototypes for evaluation, which typically include:
- Design Review: UL examines the product’s design to ensure it meets applicable safety requirements.
- Materials Evaluation: The materials used in the product are assessed to confirm they are suitable and safe.
- Performance Testing: The product is tested for functionality, durability, and overall performance.
- Environmental Testing: The product is evaluated under different environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and chemical exposure.
Certification and Marking:
If the product passes all required tests, it receives UL certification. UL Solutions issues an official certification report and grants permission to use the UL mark. Once certified, manufacturers can apply the UL mark to both the product and its packaging to indicate compliance.
Follow-up Inspections:
UL carries out regular follow-up inspections to ensure ongoing compliance during production. These inspections may include reviewing the manufacturing process and audits of the production facility to verify that the certified standards are consistently maintained.
Industries That Rely on UL Labels
Many industries depend on UL labels to confirm that their products and components meet safety and compliance standards. These labels help ensure that items are tested, reliable, and approved for use in specific environments. Below are some of the main industries that use UL labels.
Automotive and Mobility
Automotive manufacturers and suppliers use UL labels to show that parts and electronic systems meet safety and performance standards. Labels may be applied at various stages of production, from raw materials to fully assembled vehicles.
Building Technologies and Construction
The construction industry uses UL labels to verify that materials and systems comply with safety codes and regulations. These labels help support safe construction practices, product durability, and overall building performance.
Energy and Utilities
Energy providers rely on UL labels to confirm that equipment is safe and reliable under various conditions. This includes both traditional and renewable energy systems.
Financial and Investment Services
In the financial sector, UL labels support the safety and security of payment systems, ATMs, and data-handling devices. These certifications help build trust in digital financial transactions.
Government Services
Government agencies use UL labels to ensure public safety, infrastructure reliability, and compliance with both national and international standards.
Health and Life Sciences
Manufacturers of medical devices and healthcare technologies use UL labels to demonstrate compliance with safety, cybersecurity, and performance standards required by regulators.
Industrial Products and Systems
Companies in the industrial sector use UL labels to verify that machinery, tools, and systems meet global safety and efficiency standards. This reduces operational risks and supports international compliance.
Life Safety and Security
UL labels are critical for fire protection, emergency response systems, and security equipment. First responders and safety equipment manufacturers rely on them to confirm that products meet strict safety criteria.
Chemicals and Materials
UL labels help companies ensure chemical safety, meet environmental requirements, and track materials and ingredients throughout the supply chain.
Products and Components
UL labels on components and finished products confirm compliance with material safety standards. They also improve visibility across production and sourcing processes.
Retail
Retailers use UL labels to confirm that products meet required quality and safety standards. These labels also support supply chain transparency and help reduce risk from unsafe goods.
Technology and Electronics
Technology companies depend on UL labels to confirm that their devices meet safety, interoperability, and performance standards before reaching consumers or businesses.
How to Identify Authentic UL Labels?
To confirm whether a UL label is genuine, consider the following steps:
- Look for the UL Mark: An authentic UL label features the official “UL” mark inside a circle. This mark should be sharp, clearly printed, and free of blurs or fading.
- Check the Label Type: The label should specify whether the product is UL Listed, UL Recognized, or UL Classified. Each designation reflects a different level of testing and approval.
- Verify the UL File Number: Most genuine UL labels include a UL File Number. You can search for this number in UL’s online database to confirm the product’s certification status.
- Inspect the Label’s Quality: Authentic UL labels are printed on durable materials with high-quality finishes. Labels that appear smudged, peeling, or poorly printed may not be legitimate.
- Use UL’s Online Tools: Visit UL’s Product iQ® database and search by company name or file number to verify the authenticity of the label and its certification.
UL Labels vs. Other Safety Certifications
UL labels are one type of safety certification, but are often compared to other marks such as CE, CSA, and ETL. Here’s how they differ:
UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
UL is widely recognized in the United States. UL tests products for safety and issues labels only after a product or component passes strict standards. UL also conducts ongoing inspections at manufacturing sites.
CE (Conformité Européenne)
CE marking is required for many products sold in the European Union. It shows that a product meets EU safety, health, and environmental standards. However, CE marking is often based on self-declaration by the manufacturer, not third-party testing.
CSA (Canadian Standards Association)
CSA is a safety certification commonly used in Canada. Like UL, CSA tests products to meet safety standards and performs follow-up inspections.
ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories)
ETL is another North American certification that shows a product complies with safety standards. It is often considered equivalent to UL, but the testing and inspection process may differ slightly.
Each label has its place depending on the region, industry, and product type. Manufacturers may use one or more of these marks based on where and how their product will be sold.
Why Lowry Solutions is Your Trusted Partner for UL Labeling and Compliance?
UL certification does more than meet a checklist. It builds trust, proves compliance, and protects your customers and brand. Skipping certification might save time upfront, but it exposes your business to safety risks, liability, and lost consumer confidence. In a competitive market, third-party validation from a respected name like UL can be the edge your product needs.
We understand the importance of getting UL labeling right at Lowry Solutions—from materials and adhesives to durability and compliance. We provide authentic UL-certified labeling solutions designed to meet the highest standards and perform in your products’ environments.
Make Safety a Standard
Partner with Lowry Solutions for certified UL labels that protect your products, strengthen your brand, and prepare you for inspection. Contact us today to explore our UL-compliant labeling options or request a consultation with our team.
FAQs
UL labels indicate that a product or component has been tested and certified to meet specific safety and performance standards. They help ensure that products are safe, meet regulatory requirements, and gain easier access to global markets.
To verify a UL label, check for a clear UL mark, confirm whether it’s UL Listed or Recognized, and look for a UL File Number. You can use UL’s Product iQ® database to search by the manufacturer or file number.
Lowry Solutions can guide you through verification and provide certified label materials that meet UL standards.
Not every product requires UL certification, but many industries—including electronics, healthcare, automotive, and construction—depend on it to meet legal, safety, and quality standards. Certification is often essential for market access and customer trust.
UL-listed labels are used on complete, standalone products that have been fully tested and approved for safety. UL-recognized labels apply to components that are part of a larger system and are tested for performance within that context. Lowry Solutions can help you choose and implement the right UL label type for your product or component.
Lowry Solutions offers pre-approved UL label constructions and printing systems that meet UL 969 standards. This eliminates the need for additional testing and shortens your time to market. Our team also supports you with compliance documentation and best practices—partner with Lowry Solutions to simplify your UL labeling process and ensure full compliance from day one.
