What is UL 859 ?

Title: A Technical Article on UL 859: The Safety Standard for Electrically Heated Blankets

The use of electrically heated blankets has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience, comfort, and energy efficiency. However, the use of these products also raises safety concerns, such as the risk of overheating, electrical shocks, or fires. To address these concerns, the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has developed UL 859, a safety standard for electrically heated blankets. In this technical article, we will discuss the purpose of UL 859, its key requirements, and the testing procedures that manufacturers must follow to obtain UL certification.

Purpose of UL 859

UL 859 is a standard that sets forth rigorous testing procedures and performance requirements for electrically heated blankets. The primary goal of this standard is to ensure the safety of electrically heated blankets, minimize the risks associated with their use, and prevent potential hazards such as overheating, electrical shocks, or fires.

Key Requirements of UL 859

To obtain UL certification for their products, manufacturers must comply with the key requirements of UL 85These requirements include:

Electrical Safety: Apparatus must be designed and manufactured to minimize the risk of electrical shock,, and other electrical hazards.

Fire Safety: Apparatus must be designed and manufactured to minimize the risk of fire and fire damage.

Performance: Apparatus must perform as specified in the standard.

Safety Test: The testing procedures must be followed to ensure that the appliance performs as specified in the standard.

marking and labeling: Apparatus must be labeled in accordance with UL 859.

UL 858: The Standard for Household Electric Ranges

UL 858, also known as the Standard for Household Electric Ranges, is a safety standard set by UL for electric ranges and cooking appliances. The main purpose of UL 858 is to ensure the safety and performance of these appliances, including their electrical connections, grounding, temperature limitations, mechanical strength, and construction materials.

Testing Procedures

To ensure the safety and performance of electrically heated blankets, manufacturers must follow the testing procedures outlined in UL 859 and UL 85These procedures include:

Electrical Safety Testing: Apparatus must undergo electrical safety testing to ensure that it meets the requirements of UL 859 and UL 858.

Fire Safety Testing: Apparatus must undergo fire safety testing to ensure that it meets the requirements of UL 859 and UL 858.

Performance Testing: Apparatus must undergo performance testing to ensure that it performs as specified in the standard.

Safety Test: The testing procedures must be followed to ensure that the appliance performs as specified in the standard.

Conclusion

UL 859 and UL 858 are two important safety standards that ensure the safety and performance of electrically heated blankets. By following the requirements of these standards, manufacturers can minimize the risks associated with the use of these products and provide consumers with safe and reliable appliances.