Product certification: Product testing and test mark as proof of quality

A product certificate confirms that a product meets defined criteria and defined safety-relevant aspects. The certificate specifies the basic principles according to which a product was tested. Corresponding test marks provide customers visible proof of quality to serve as a reliable decision-making aid when choosing a product. In a glance, recognized test marks are validation that product-specific quality has been checked by an independent third party. According to an end consumer survey, almost 90 % of respondents prefer manufacturer advertising statements to be neutrally reviewed and confirmed.

Our experts have many years of experience and support you with industry-specific product tests and certifications. We provide services for regulatory tests required by law for market approval as well as voluntary tests. Minimum requirements insist that safety-related aspects are met. Additional quality criteria determined by our specialists can be tested and certified to demonstrate your product meets the expectations of your customer.

With our internationally recognized test mark , you can easily signal the suitability, safety and high quality of your products in an effective advertising campaign.

Would you like to learn more about our product certification and test marks?

Our product certification and test mark can significantly boost your brand image and increase your market success. An effective advertising strategy bearing our test mark provides your customers a clear decision-making aid and gives you a clear competitive advantage. Our neutral production monitoring services help you to reduce risk and continuously present your customers with credible quality assurance. Our experts work to support a speedy product launch and help you access valuable international markets.

A global leader, we provide comprehensive inspection, testing, verification and certification services around the world. Our international team of experts works in accredited laboratories and on-site operational facilities to test and certify the safety, usability and quality of technical systems as well as capital and consumer goods.

Our certification process

1. Application for the desired certification sought for your product.
2. Thorough examination of a representative selection of your products on basis of required criteria. Tests are carried out either in our test laboratories or directly on your premises, for example in exceptional cases involving very large machines.
3. Issuance of product certificate and your test mark after successful acceptance.
4. Monitoring of your production site at regular intervals to verify products manufactured currently correspond to the tested sample in order to ensure the continued validity of your certificate.

On request, you will receive an exclusive entry in our "Certipedia" online certificate database . By scanning in a QR code, your customers can easily and quickly access information about your certified products at any time.

We have stood for quality and safety for over 145 years. Our globally recognized independent testing and certification services conducted by experienced international experts help you secure the trust of your customers and business partners. We provide you a respected and renowned test mark as well as an entry in our Certipedia online database to ensure full transparency about the quality and safety of your products.

You too can benefit from our test marks and certifications.

We test products to specific domestic and international standards to ensure that the products meets compliance with all applicable requirements.

The Value of a TÜV Rheinland Certification

When both consumers and manufacturers see a TÜV Rheinland certification mark, they can be assured that they are buying a safe product that has been investigated to particular safety requirements by an accredited third party and is supported by regular surveillance audits and factory inspections.

To compete in today's marketplace, companies need certified management systems. Being able to display that you selected a highly regarded registrar to conduct the independent audit can further distinguish your company

TÜV Rheinland of North America has a new certification mark which reflects our evolution as a global product certification leader and the growing importance to thousands of global clients, like you, that benefit from the reputation of our mark.

This newly designed mark reinforces the TÜV Rheinland brand and ensure consistency and ease of recognition among consumers and code officials worldwide, helping your products achieve greater acceptance and faster market entry around the world.

Products bearing the cTUV, TUVus or cTUVus Certification Marks reflect supplier commitment and confidence and have been independently confirmed to meet the minimum requirements of US and Canadian electrical safety standards.

Please refer to FAQ under the FAQ tab for more details.

Q: Why did TÜV Rheinland redesign its North American certification marks?
A: Our aim is to help our customers achieve success in the global marketplace. The new design combines the local strength and recognition of each mark with the global brand power of TÜV Rheinland. Together, the new mark design adds value to manufacturers’ products and brings consistency and ease-of-recognition to consumers and code officials worldwide.

Q: What is the difference between the new and the old marks?
A: The new North American marks provide bolder text for easier identification and more clarity when used on small applications.

Q: When will the new certification marks be launched?
A: On April 1, 2011, we will formally introduce the new design of the North American marks.

Q: Who is allowed to use the new marks?
A: All TÜV Rheinland clients with valid cTUV, TUVus and cTUVus certificates are eligible to switch to the new marks beginning April 1, 2011

Q: Will existing marks still be valid?
A: Yes, the existing cTUV, TUVus and cTUVus marks will continue to be valid. Transition to the new marks should occur by end of 2012.

Q: Can I start using the new marks even if my certificate was issued before April 1, 2011 and shows the “old” marks?
A: Clients may update to the new TÜV Rheinland certification mark design at any time.

Q: Do I need to start using the new marks if I obtain a certificate issued after April 1, 2011?
A: Clients may take advantage of the new TÜV Rheinland certification marks. After the first year the old marks will no longer be valid.

Q: Can I change the marks?
A: TÜV Rheinland’s certification marks may not be altered. Only official artwork versions of the marks should be used. If you have any questions about mark usage, please contact info@tuv.com.

Q: Do the new marks mean any changes in TÜV Rheinland’s services or procedures?
A: No, the marks have only been redesigned. There is no change in the regulations or processes required to obtain certifications.

Q: Once the new marks are in use, are the current testing reports and certifications still valid?
A: Yes, the test reports and certifications are still valid. Clients do not need to replace them. There will be a transition period of one year from April 1, 2011 for clients to adopt the new marks with no impact on test reports of certifications.

If you have additional questions, please email info@tuv.com or call 888-743-4652.