Labels and Label Systems from NRTL’s Viewpoint June 22, 2010 by Homi Ahmadi

UL and other agencies are concerned with labels carrying critical ratings: Electrical Ratings Model Number Brand Name Warnings/ Cautions Factory ID (where there is more than one) Other symbols

UL Standard for Label is UL 969 UL categorizes labels as follow: PGIS2 PGDQ2 PGJI2* PGGU2 PGAA * May not necessarily comply with UL 969 (Marking and Labeling Systems testing standard)

PGIS2 This category is intended for use to satisfy Specific requirements in Standards typically related to tags attached to flexible cords; such as Christmas tree lights, Extension cord, Pumps, etc.   This testing is usually related to the tag’s ability to resist slippage when applied to a flexible cord. This category covers finished printed labels and unprinted label material used to make printed labels. This category is very limited in scope. The UL standard used for this category is UL 817.

PGDQ2 This category pertains to a finished pre-printed label. This is an evaluation of a system consisting of ink, label stock, over-lamination, adhesive, etc. to determine if they are compatible together when exposed to various temperatures , certain environment and applied to various surfaces.   The UL identification on the product should agree with the individual vendor’s recognition in the UL Certification Directory. User’s responsibilities: Check compatibility (temperature, surface, locations) Check required marking.

PGJI2 This category relates to a blank label system comprised of individual parts that have been evaluated together as a system.   This category is similar to PGDQ2 except the printing is done by the end user and compatible ribbon inks are matched to the label stock.   The vendor has had the label stock tested with various ribbon inks and tested for application to certain surfaces and exposed to various temperatures. The label printing machines are typically no longer specified by UL because they are usually only a thermal or mechanical method for applying the ink. PGJI2 vendors usually sell the entire system as a package consisting of the printer, ribbon, and label stock.

PGGU2 This category is limited to the individual parts of a system: i.e. over-lamination material, adhesive, excluding ink and blank label This category would be utilized by label vendors in putting together a system. 

PGAA This program, known as “Authorized Label Suppliers Program,” deals with printing and/or distribution of the UL certification marks only. This category gives the label manufacturer the legal authority to reproduce the UL mark. It does not concern with label material. Labels in this category must only be distributed only to authorized customers.

When printing in-house, the label must use the PGJI2 system When printing in-house, the label must use the PGJI2 system. The PGJI2 system should be compatible with the material, environment and temperature to which it is applied to. The label stock should only be used with the specific ribbon called out in the directory. The label stock and ribbon should be identified by the vendor as specified in the UL Certifications Directory.

What should be on the label drawing? If the label is preprinted, then it must come from a PGDQ2-recognized system. If the label is blank, then all components must come from a PGJI2 system. If the label incorporate UL certification mark, it must also comply with PGAA category.

What should be on the label spool/packaging: It must meet the marking requirements set in UL Directory. Typical examples would be: Vendor’s name or logo Product type or Model number UL file number --------------------------------------------------------------- Endurance test on any new label is a good engineering prasctice.

Type L and R labels Type L Type R Labels that are printed with the UL Certification Mark will be designated by UL as either Type R or Type L, depending on the level of control UL wants to have over the printing of the mark. Type L Primarily intended for life safety products and products where manufacturing quality control is more of a safety issue Visits are scheduled as unannounced inspections based on the number of UL Marks actually used by the manufacturer Typically, manufacturers purchase UL Marks on labels from UL or an Authorized Label Supplier Also referred to as “Label Service” Type R Primarily intended for electrical appliances and other products Visits will normally be unannounced at least four times per year Manufacturers produce their own UL markings, using artwork approved by UL UL certification marking can be applied on an adhesive label or through a molding, stamping, etching or silk-screening process