UL Systems

UL has published Standards for both security equipment and burglar alarms since the early 1920s. UL engineers recognized then that while burglary protection technology might perform well in a controlled laboratory environment, long-term performance in the field was uncertain.

They knew that effective security relies on more than just physical equipment. Human interpretation of situations and responsive action based on that interpretation are key elements of a security package. UL and insurance interests decided that in addition to UL's traditional services for equipment manufacturers, a companion service was needed to address actual field performance of security systems. UL's Burglar Alarm Certificate Program takes into consideration both the equipment and the human elements of security systems.

Mercantile systems - These systems are characterized by the fact that UL Standards do not require system arming and disarming to be monitored or supervised. Business operators have the sole responsibility for setting their burglar alarm systems. UL Standards do not require the alarm company to dispatch investigators. The alarm is simply relayed to local law enforcement. This type of service may be available in areas where central station service is not.

Through this program, UL "Lists" installation companies, who are then authorized to issue UL Certificates on individual system installations. Each Certificate is the installer's declaration that UL's required service, which includes regular maintenance and testing, is being provided. As part of UL's audit inspection program, each Certificated system is subject to unannounced inspections to countercheck ongoing appliance.

Proper maintenance and service are essential to the reliable operation of an alarm system and can help reduce false alarms. Accordingly, UL Certificated burglar alarm systems are required to have a maintenance and service contract. Under the maintenance contract, the alarm company is required to repair the system in a timely manner and inspect it at least once a year.

The benefits of the Certificate program, which include quality installations, follow-up inspections, maintenance, false alarm reduction and more, can only be realized by insisting on a UL Certificate. Simply requiring that the alarm system and/or the ASC is Listed by UL will not assure that the alarm system is installed and maintained to nationally recognized standards. For more information, see Listed or Certificated.