Hi Rob:
> I am in discussions with a potential supplier of IT equipment, Its our
> usual policy to request testing to a listed standard
> such as UL 60950 for safety in North America.
>
> The supplier has replied that this is not mandatory.
>
> Is he correct? what compels safety testing for IT equipment in this
> geography? is it mandated by law?
I am going to interpret your statement of "safety
testing" as meaning "safety certification."
In the USA, there are two sets of regulations that
are mandated by law:
1. Workplace regulations (OSHA).
2. Electrical installation regulations (NEC).
Between these two sets of regulations, almost
every sales situation is covered.
Each of these has two alternatives:
1. Test each unit in place.
2. Third-party certification.
Technically, your supplier is correct. Third-party
safety certification is NOT mandatory (because
testing each unit in place is the alternative).
Practically, your supplier is wrong. Third-party
safety certification avoids testing each unit in
place.
In the USA, governments cannot mandate testing by
a private party (which is the case of third-party
safety certification houses). Consequently, the
regulations promulgated under various laws prescribe
testing in place, with an alternative of third-
party certification to a national standard, i.e.,
an ANSI standard.
Best regards,
Rich
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