The globalization of markets and the resulting requirements for electrical and electronic products make launching products on new markets increasingly complex. As certifications require extensive knowledge, contacts and a worldwide presence, manufacturers tend to outsource the certification process to experienced, globally present service providers.
To simplify international efforts towards common certification and shorten product development cycles, a series of multilateral agreements like the IEC, CB-Scheme have been agreed upon. Harmonized norms fulfill worldwide applicable safety requirements even those specific to a region or country: climate temperature or voltage requirements. To cover safety standards globally, manufacturers have to make sure that their CB report (also called CB test report) covers all the national product safety regulations.
Complex Processes to Make Things Simple
Harmonizing legislations is a complex process. This is confirmed by the particulars of Chinese certification rules. The CCC Certification requires additional on-site testing in China, even if a product has obtained a CB report. Similarly, the requirements for the widely known GS mark (Geprüfte Sicherheit = Tested Safety mark for Germany) are rather complex as well. To receive a GS certificate, ergonomic reports and technical documentation are required and, since 2008, also an additional chemical analysis of plastics – PAK Testing.
In other situations misinformation or lack of communication can lengthen the certification process. Accessing the North American market is often falsely connected with receiving just Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certifications. In the American market there are a high number of Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) which test to UL norms and offer certifications.
To make matters even more complicated some certifications require various cross-discipline testing and inspection. For product safety compliance, many countries have further testing requirements for eElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and hazardous substances.
Make Certifications Work For You
Country-specific, product-specific or job-specific qualification requirements are complex endeavours, but when handled by experts they optimise processes and can considerably shorten times to market. For all specific, safety, EMC, performance or restricted substances requirements SGS can support manufacturers and retailers through its extensive global portfolio of services. Experienced, multidiscipline SGS experts will shorten your product development process.
The SGS has accredited CBTLs (Certified Body Testing Laboratories) for the CB-Scheme and acts as a strong partner for European retailers and importers. SGS offers an attractive and speedy alternative to UL Certifications for the US through the SGS USTC mark, allowing more flexibility in the development and launching of products in the US market.
A worldwide network of labs as well as the necessary contacts in key manufacturing regions simplify your certification process and provide you with clear support when developing norms-compliant products. SGS can perform factory inspections required by various certifications all over the world.
Additionally, the implementation of SGS quality control systems will help you control and decrease production costs.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login