What is ETL Certification and Why Does It Matter for Lab Benches?

As laboratories evolve to support increasingly complex research and development, the need for reliable, safe, and well-designed workspaces becomes more important than ever. Laboratory furniture is no longer just about function; it's about safety, compliance, adaptability, and long-term value. At Karan and Associates, Inc., we specialize in designing and manufacturing modern lab workspaces that meet the highest standards in the industry. One key feature that sets our products apart is ETL certification, particularly for our flagship Avatar Lab Bench System. But what does ETL certification really mean, and why should it matter to you?

Understanding ETL Certification

ETL certification is a mark of safety and compliance recognized across North America. ETL stands for Electrical Testing Laboratories, a designation originally founded by Thomas Edison in 1896. Today, the ETL mark is provided by Intertek, one of the world’s largest independent testing, inspection, and certification companies.

An ETL certification indicates that a product has been independently tested and meets the minimum requirements of widely accepted product safety standards. For laboratory furniture, that often means compliance with UL standards such as UL 962, which governs safety for household and commercial furnishings.

What Are UL Standards?

UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is a global safety certification company that sets rigorous standards across a wide range of industries. The UL 962 standard applies specifically to furniture, ensuring that products like lab benches, workstations, and cabinets are built to withstand various safety challenges, such as fire hazards, electrical faults, and structural integrity under stress.

While ETL and UL are separate organizations, they test for many of the same standards. A product certified by ETL to UL standards is just as compliant and safe as one certified directly by UL. The important thing to know is that ETL certification to a UL standard means your lab furniture has been validated by a credible, third-party authority.

Why ETL Certification Matters for Lab Benches

Safety is non-negotiable in any laboratory setting. Chemicals, sensitive instruments, and high-voltage equipment all present potential hazards. Choosing ETL-certified furniture ensures your workspace is built to handle these demands.

• Safety Assurance: ETL certification guarantees that a product has undergone extensive safety testing.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many jurisdictions require laboratory furniture to meet specific safety standards.
• Insurance Requirements: ETL-certified products can reduce liability and help with insurance approval.
• Durability and Performance: Certified products are rigorously tested for daily lab use.

Introducing the Avatar Lab Bench System

At Karan and Associates, we are proud to offer the Avatar Lab Bench System, our premier line of modular lab furniture, ETL-certified to conform to UL 962. Engineered for durability, flexibility, and user comfort, Avatar benches are ideal for both industrial and academic labs seeking top-tier performance.

The Avatar system features:

• Modular design for easy customization and reconfiguration
• Integrated cable management and power systems
• Durable surfaces designed for chemical resistance
• Accessories including shelving, storage drawers, and lighting options

Beyond Benches: Comprehensive Lab Solutions

📸 Photo Credit: Stephen Whalen Photography

While the Avatar system is a standout, our product line extends far beyond benches. At Karan and Associates, Inc., we manufacture a broad array of SEFA-compliant laboratory casework right here in the USA. Our offerings include:

• Fixed and mobile base cabinets
• Wall-mounted and tall storage cabinets
• Freestanding tables and workstations
• Specialty carts and mobile utility units
• Custom components tailored to your needs

What is SEFA and Why It Matters

We are proud members of the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA). Read more in our SEFA membership announcement.

SEFA-compliant products undergo rigorous testing for surface durability, chemical resistance, structural integrity, and cleanability, ensuring long-lasting, high-performance furniture for any laboratory environment.

Spotlight: Gas Cylinder Storage and Handling

We also offer a robust line of gas cylinder storage and handling products, available in stock and ready to ship. Safety is our top priority, and our designs are built to reduce risks and meet OSHA, NFPA 1, and NFPA 55 requirements.

• Heavy-duty steel construction
• Wall or floor anchoring systems
• Poly straps and chain restraints
• Custom and standard models available

The Karan and Associates Difference

What makes us different? We proudly design and manufacture everything in-house right here in the United States. Our team works closely with clients to deliver custom, compliant, and high-performance lab solutions with minimal lead times.

Why Certification and Compliance are a Smart Investment

Certified lab furniture may cost a little more up front, but the long-term benefits are clear. ETL and SEFA certifications provide assurance of safety, quality, and compliance. That means fewer headaches, smoother inspections, and greater peace of mind.

From our ETL-certified Avatar Lab Bench System to our in-stock gas cylinder handling products, every item is built to perform under pressure.

Ready to Upgrade Your Lab?

Explore our full line of products and contact us today. Because when it comes to science, there's no room for compromise.