The United States currently plays a central role in media coverage. Daily reports cover import tariffs, regulations, and other agreements that affect how we conduct business with America. One regulation that has been relevant for a long time is the UL standard, which plays a major role in systems exported to the U.S.
But what exactly is this standard, and how do we deal with it? We spoke with Victor, a Manufacturers Technical Representative at PIA Service and a UL specialist.
Can you explain what UL is and what the differences are between the various UL standards?
Victor: When an industrial control panel is exported to North America, it’s crucial that it complies with the correct regulations. What many companies don’t realize is that failure to meet these requirements can have serious consequences for the project timeline and delivery. Rejection by local authorities, delays, fines, or even shutdowns are real risks. To avoid these issues, two standards are particularly important:
- UL 508A is the standard for the construction of industrial control panels in the U.S.
- UL 698A is an additional standard for panels installed outside hazardous (explosion-risk) areas but which are connected to equipment within those zones.
How does PIA handle this for its clients?
Victor: PIA is certified as a panel shop for both NITW(7) (UL 508A) and NRBX(7) (UL 698A). This means we are authorized to internally apply the official UL label to industrial control panels. For many clients, insurers, and inspectors, an official UL label is not a “nice-to-have,” but a strict requirement. This prevents unpleasant surprises during inspections or final delivery to the end customer and ensures the project proceeds without unnecessary delays.
Such a label means more than just “approved.” It shows that the correct components were used and that the work was done according to the proper instructions — something that is not always guaranteed in practice. PIA undergoes multiple UL inspections each year to maintain quality assurance.
Additionally, PIA has a team of EPLAN/MTR-certified engineers and a modern team of panel builders. We don’t just work off electrical diagrams; we leverage the full capabilities of our design software to quickly realize UL-compliant solutions.
Whether it’s a large Canadian C-UL project with 85 floor-standing cabinets, a complex system with multiple RIO panels, or a single wall-mounted cabinet for an ATEX environment, we offer full technical support and project guidance throughout the entire process.
Want to know more?
Do you have questions about UL 508A, UL 698A, or how these standards apply to your project? Contact PIA Service, Jeroen van der Linden:
Via LinkedIn: Jeroen van der Linden | LinkedIn
Via Email: jvdl@piaservice.nl
