NORTHBROOK, Ill. — Underwriters Laboratories recently launched a free web-based search tool that will help architects and construction specifiers achieve safe, sustainable and code-compliant installations.
UL Product Spec will allow users to search by five different categories: installation code, product type, products, systems or assemblies, CSI MasterFormat number or UL product category code.
“For many years industry professionals relied on printed UL product directories for product certification information,” said UL Senior Regulatory Engineer Tom Lichtenstein. “With UL Product Spec, UL product certification information will be much easier to access.”
For example, a specifying architect needing to find a fire-rated assembly to meet specific construction criteria could use UL Product Spec by searching “Products, Systems or Assemblies.” The search will lead to a comprehensive list of UL Certified fire-rated designs specific to the user’s criteria. An advanced search function provides options to narrow the search by fire-resistive hourly ratings or by a manufacturer. Links are then provided to detailed fire-rated assembly designs.
Search by “Installation Code” will allow a user to input code section numbers from 32 of the most commonly used North American model codes to access certified products that apply to that code section. The “Product Systems or Assemblies” search also includes equipment and systems covered by the National Electrical Code — including power distribution equipment, photovoltaic and wind power systems and industrial control equipment — as well as items covered by North American building and fire codes such as windstorm-rated products, commercial cooking equipment and fire-protection systems.
These electrical, fire and building UL product categories are organized by intuitive groups. A variety of fire-rated assemblies, systems and designs can be located by using construction parameters, ratings and materials, or by using UL design numbers. The ability to search for certifications associated with a particular CSI MasterFormat section number allows architects and construction specifiers to search using familiar CSI numbers.
UL Product Spec can be accessed by desktops, tablets and smartphones. It is also a gateway to a wide range of green construction and sustainability certifications. These include code correlations for ASHRAE 189.1, Cal Green and the International Green Construction Code.
For more information, visit UL.com/productspec.
