UL field inspections are on-site, installation-level inspections that a system or piece of equipment must pass in order to use the item going forward.
The UL field inspection process is often
simpler and more cost-effective than completing or repeating the entire UL
listing process for equipment that is up to the relevant safety standards. It
is extremely important to get the inspection right in order to resume safe,
legal, and effective operation of the equipment in question.
When UL Field Inspections Happen
Field inspections are a valid option for a range of items, including HVAC equipment, industrial control panels, power distribution equipment, commercial cooking equipment, fire doors, and fuel cells.
There are a few situations in which a UL field
inspection is necessary:
●
Changes were made that void the listing/certification. A piece of equipment may be certified and UL listed, but if the
equipment is modified, retrofitted, or partially replaced, the original listing
will be invalidated. For example, if bus taps are made on the line or load side
of the main circuit breaker, the switchgear has been modified and requires a
field inspection or recertification
●
An Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requests it. If the relevant authority requests the equipment be inspected, it must
be reinspected. The AHJ is the one responsible for enforcing the relevant
standards in a given area, often a government official or utility inspector.
For example, the city building inspector may “red tag” switchgear if it is
modified, requiring a field inspection to ensure the equipment is up to the
local electrical code.
●
The listing is voided for another reason. If
the label is not applied correctly, or the equipment could not be installed
according to the parameters that were stated to and approved by UL, then the
listing is invalid. If an electrical inspector or other AHJ identifies this
discrepancy, they can request recertification.
How Field Inspections Happen
First, identify the standards that apply to the equipment being evaluated, which will help you understand the performance requirements and assessment criteria. When it comes to electrical products, for example, a few standards will apply: UL standards, National Electrical Code (NEC), and utility requirements.
Next, fill out the application and prepare to demonstrate compliance with the appropriate standards. The application will ask for basic information about the product, as well as technical documentation that describes performance standards and safeguards.
Finally, the equipment will be tested on-site.
The inspection may require a temporary power shut-down or other accommodations
that can affect productivity that day, so be prepared and as efficient as possible.
What Happens After a UL Field Inspection
If the equipment does not meet all of the relevant requirements during testing, review the test report to understand what went wrong and how it needs to be addressed.
If the equipment meets all of the requirements during testing, a field label or documentation will be provided. If the equipment receives a field label, make sure the label is applied correctly to avoid any issues in the future.
If the usage, location, or other conditions
change, consider whether an updated inspection or evaluation is necessary.
Discuss the matter with an experienced compliance team if you are unsure
because waiting too long to re-inspect the equipment can cause further issues
down the road.
Contact G&M Compliance to
Prepare for a UL Inspection
G&M Compliance can help you navigate the
entire UL field inspection process, from the initial request through the final
report and beyond. G&M Compliance has extensive experience with product
safety testing and certification for a variety of products and situations.
Contact
G&M Compliance for more information about the UL field
inspection process today.