Independent Testing Laboratories (ITL) Certification Program FAQ

• What is the NEBS Independent Testing Laboratory (ITL) Certification Program?

  This program certifies independent testing laboratories (ITLs) as eligible to conduct testing at their own facilities or observe and conduct NEBS testing at the manufacturer's test facility (MTF) in order to meet special customer requirements. UL is a certified ITL for all three available programs:

  • NEBS Testing Certification Program (TCP)
  • NEBS Testing Certification Witnessing Program (TCWP)
  • Fiber Optic Component (FOC) Program

   

• What is the value of the program to a manufacturer?

  For NEBS and optical fiber clients with special service provider testing and reporting requirements, UL can provide a service tailored to those requirements, shortening test cycles, time to market acceptance and product delivery. Where special requirements are not specified, UL's traditional data acceptance programs provide ITE and telecom clients' testing and on-site witnessing and auditing of tests that are accepted throughout the industry.

• How does the TCWP program work?

  UL staff supervises or performs tests conducted at the client facility. The test data is utilized the same as data developed at UL's facilities and is included in the UL NEBS report.

• How does a manufacturer participate in the TCWP program?

  Before NEBS testing can be witnessed or conducted at a MTF under this program, UL must assess the MTF as having the necessary equipment, staff and laboratory procedures. During the implementation process, audits of the ITL (UL) -- while performing testing at a MTF -- will be conducted by the appropriate service provider. This process will result in the verification of an acceptable NEBS witnessing and testing program for UL with the particular MTF. An ongoing auditing program, performed by the service provider, assures continued compliance.

• Why should you use UL as your ITL?

  All of UL's main US offices that conduct NEBS testing, multiple local engineering services offices and worldwide affiliates can be staging points for witnessing or performing tests under the program; all provide convenient, cost-effective services. UL has years of experience in testing and witnessing tests and working with manufacturers under our client interactive programs, which are OSHA-approved under UL's NRTL accreditation, and backed by engineering expertise, knowledgeable staff, integrity and quality.

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