Drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Certification

Overview

The use of UAVs and drones has been rapidly increasing across a range of commercial applications for infrastructure, agricultural, security, delivery, emergency response and government. Land can be quickly and accurately surveyed for detailed mapping. Data can be gathered in mining operations keeping people out of hazardous situations. First responders are able to more effectively analyze dangerous situations while staying out of harm’s way. And inspectors can acquire footage from vantage points that they never thought possible, until now.

UL 3030 – A new standard for safer flights

UAVs, more commonly known as drones, are changing the way we interact with the world. Drones often save time and, by allowing operators to stay at a safe distance, reduce risk when performing certain activities. Though drones may be powered by different sources, battery technology is a key element in the success of this technology. As with all battery applications, there are critical needs in this space, including:

• Assessing and validating battery safety
• Proving/defining system capabilities in safe mode
• Evaluating the coordination of the charger, battery system and load as safe

UL 3030, the Standard for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, addresses electrical system requirements for UAVs operated by trained pilots. This new standard covers commercial, e.g., agricultural, scientific, research, video for film industry or news broadcasts and roof inspections, and tactical, e.g. government, local police and search and rescue, applications. Aspects such as airworthiness, efficacy of controls and similar topics are out of scope, but must be addressed by regulations, user programs and other standards.

How can you tell if your drone is UL Certified?

We strive to make identifying a UL Certified product as easy as possible. Simply look for the UL holographic certification label with the Enhanced Mark on the bottom of the product. This label is your indication that you have a UL Certified product.