What is the difference between an electrical label and a UL label? You’ll see both types of labels listed on the Brandmark website, and both types are applied to electronics. However, the two are not interchangeable. What’s the difference between them?

Defining Electrical Labels

An electrical label is a generic label that provides information about the electrical characteristics of a device. It typically includes details such as the voltage, current, wattage, frequency, and other specifications that are relevant to the safe and proper use of that device.

Examples include:

• Power strip or surge protectors that provide multiple outlets for plugging in electronic devices. An electrical label on the power strip provides information about the maximum voltage, current, and wattage that the device can handle, as well as any other relevant information.
• Electric motors used in a manufacturing process. An electrical label provides information about the voltage, current, horsepower, and other specifications of the motor that are important for selecting and operating it safely.
• A computer or other electronic device that uses AC power. An electrical label on the device provides information about the voltage and frequency of the power supply, as well as any other electrical characteristics that are relevant to its safe and proper use.

Electrical labels are not just a good idea. In most countries, they are required by law. The specific requirements for electrical labels may vary by country or region, but, stated above, they typically include information such as the product’s voltage, current, power consumption, and safety certifications. In some cases, the label may also include instructions for proper use and maintenance of the product.

In the United States, for example, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requires that most consumer products, including electronics, have permanent labels that include the manufacturer’s name, model number, and warning statements if necessary. Additionally, electronic products sold in the U.S. must comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations regarding radio frequency emissions.

Defining UL Labels

On the other hand, a UL label is a specific type of label that indicates that a device has been certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global safety consulting and certification company. UL is an independent organization that tests, inspects, and certifies products for safety and compliance with applicable standards. A UL label indicates that the product has passed UL’s rigorous safety testing and meets applicable safety standards.

UL labels can be found on products such as . . .

• Kitchen appliances such as toasters or blenders. The UL labels on the appliance indicates that it has been tested and certified for safety and compliance with applicable electrical and fire safety standards.
• Power cords or extension cords. The UL label indicates that the cord has been tested and certified for safety and compliance with applicable standards.
• Electrically powered tool such as drills or saws. The UL label indicates that the tool has been tested and certified for safety and compliance with applicable electrical and mechanical safety standards.

Electrical labels and UL labels may both be used on the same product, but they are not one and the same. While an electrical label provides information about the electrical characteristics of a device, a UL label indicates that a device has been certified by a reputable independent organization for safety and compliance.

Need help creating the appropriate label to use in your electronics applications? Contact us! That’s why we’re here.