Understanding UL Listed vs. UL Recognized

GracePorts are Now UL Listed!

I'm thrilled to share some exciting news that marks a significant milestone in our company's 30+ year history. Our flagship product, the GracePort, is now officially UL Listed! This achievement highlights our commitment to quality and safety while benefiting our customers, distributors, and everyone involved in selecting and installing our products.

I want to explain what the UL Listing means, how it differs from UL Recognition, and why this transition is a game-changer. Let's explore the history and importance of UL and how our UL Listed GracePorts can streamline your operations and enhance safety compliance.

What is UL and Why Does It Matter?

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a global safety certification company that has been setting industry standards for over a century. Founded in 1894, UL provides testing, inspection, and certification services to ensure products meet rigorous safety standards. Its familiar UL Mark symbolizes trust and reliability, and it is recognized worldwide by manufacturers, consumers, and regulatory authorities.

Using safety science and hazard-based safety engineering, UL promotes safe living and working environments. When a product bears the UL Mark, it signifies that it has undergone thorough testing and meets specific safety requirements, providing confidence to end-users and regulators alike.

Understanding UL Listed vs. UL Recognized

While both UL Listed and UL Recognized certifications involve rigorous evaluation, they serve different purposes and offer distinct benefits.

UL Recognized Components

• Definition: UL Recognized components are parts intended for use in UL Listed end products. They are evaluated based on specific "Conditions of Acceptability" and are not meant for standalone use.
• Application: These components require further evaluation when used in an end product. The manufacturer must ensure that the component is installed and used according to its specified conditions.
• Limitations: Additional verification or approval might be necessary for field installation or separate use, potentially leading to delays or extra costs.

UL Listed Products

• Definition: UL Listed products are complete, stand-alone, tested, and certified for safety and compliance. They are suitable for installation and use without needing further evaluation.
• Application: These products can be readily installed in the field, and their UL Listing assures compliance with safety standards, simplifying approval processes.
• Benefits: UL Listed products streamline installation, reduce the burden of additional compliance checks, and are more readily accepted by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) and inspectors.

The Transition of GracePorts from UL Recognized to UL Listed

Our GracePorts were previously UL Recognized components under the category "Industrial Control Panels—Component" (UL Category code NITW2). While this certification affirmed the quality and safety of our products, it required customers and AHJs to consider specific Conditions of Acceptability during installation.

Now, the game has changed with our GracePorts being UL Listed under the category "Environmental-rated Accessories for Enclosures" (UL Category code FTTA).

🔍 Download and review our FTTA UL Listing Letter.

What Does This Mean for You?

• Simplified Installation: You can now install GracePorts without worrying about additional compliance checks or Conditions of Acceptability. Follow the installation instructions provided, and you're good to go.
• Faster Approval: AHJs and inspectors can more readily approve installations featuring UL Listed GracePorts, as the UL Listing Mark assures them of compliance with safety standards and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
• Reduced Burden: There's no need for further UL evaluation or potential field inspections, saving you time and resources.
• Seamless Integration: The UL Listing covers our fully customizable GracePorts, including various components, housings, and power options. It ensures that whatever configuration you choose meets UL's stringent requirements.

Benefits for Industrial Control Panel OEMs and Customers

If you're an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or a customer utilizing industrial control panels, here's how the UL Listing of GracePorts enhances your operations:

• Compliance Confidence: The UL Listing ensures that integrating GracePorts into your equipment meets necessary safety standards, simplifying your product certification process.
• No Need to Update UL Files: You can integrate UL Listed GracePorts into existing certified equipment without updating your UL file, streamlining product development and time to market.
• Enhanced Marketability: Products featuring UL Listed components are more attractive in the market, providing assurance to end-users and differentiating you from competitors.
• Versatile Applications: Whether you're dealing with harsh industrial environments or sensitive electronic equipment, our UL Listed GracePorts are designed to perform reliably and are backed by UL's rigorous testing.

A Bit of History: Our 30+ Year Journey

Grace Technologies has been at the forefront of innovation in electrical safety and connectivity solutions for over three decades. Our GracePorts have been a cornerstone of our product offerings, providing safe and convenient access to control panels without exposing personnel to electrical hazards.

The journey to UL Listing reflects our continuous commitment to improvement and responsiveness to customer needs. We recognized that while UL Recognition served us well, achieving UL Listing would offer tangible benefits to our customers and partners. This milestone is a testament to our dedication to excellence and safety.

Experience the Difference – Request a Sample Today

We invite you to experience the benefits of our UL Listed GracePorts firsthand. Discover how they can streamline your operations, enhance safety compliance, and provide peace of mind.

👉 Click here to request a sample of a UL Listed GracePort® today

The UL Listing of our GracePorts is more than just a certification—it's a commitment to you, our valued customers, and our partners. It's about making your job easier, your operations safer, and your compliance simpler.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to a safer and more efficient future together!