How to obtain a UL4200A test report for button batteries?
Date：2025-12-11 09:41:20 Classification
：【question】 Visits：
Obtaining a UL4200A test report for button batteries is indeed a crucial step in ensuring product compliance for market entry. Based on the latest standards, the process can be divided into five core steps, with a focus on child safety protection design.
I. Choosing a Compliant Certification Body
- Qualification Requirements: The chosen laboratory must be CPSC-accredited and possess ISO 17025 certification, such as Dezeway Testing (CNAS registration number: L8083), or a domestic CNAS-certified laboratory (its UL4200A testing authorization scope must be confirmed).
- Selection Recommendation: If the product is planned for export to platforms such as Amazon in the US, prioritize institutions directly recognized by e-commerce platforms to reduce subsequent audit risks.
II. Preparation of Documents and Samples
- Technical Document List
| Material Type | Specific Content
| Product Specifications | Technical Specifications, Design Drawings (including battery compartment structure)
| User Manual | English Instruction Manual (including safety warnings)
| Battery Information | UN38.3 test report provided by the battery supplier
- Sample Requirements
- Quantity: 3-5 final retail version samples (must include complete packaging and battery compartment structure)
- Status: Ensure samples are consistent with mass production; the battery compartment must be pre-installed with batteries and structurally intact.
III. Core Test Items (UL4200A:2023 Version)
- Physical Protection Test
- Opening Difficulty Verification: The battery compartment can only be opened by two independent actions (e.g., pressing + rotating) or a special tool (screwdriver/coin); it cannot be opened directly by hand.
- Robustness Test: The battery must not detach after being pulled by a 20N force for 10 seconds; the battery compartment must remain closed after being dropped from a height of 1 meter 3 times.
- Abuse Scenario Test
- - 2J Impact Test (Steel ball impacts the battery compartment from a specific height)
- 330N Crushing Test (Simulates child stepping on the battery)
- Short Circuit/Overcharge Test (Assesses battery thermal runaway risk)
- Labeling Compliance
- The product itself must be labeled with the warning "SWALLOWING HAZARD" (font height ≥ 3mm)
- Packaging must include ISO 7010 standard warning symbols (e.g., W001 hazard symbol + child-proof icon)
IV. Testing Cycle and Costs
- Time Cycle: Standard process 5-7 business days (excluding rectification time)
- Cost Range: Depending on product complexity, the cost per test is approximately RMB 800-2000, including laboratory testing fees and report preparation fees.
- Expedited Service: Some institutions offer expedited processing (3-5 business days), with fees increasing by 30%-50%.
V. Report Review and Use
- Process Nodes: After the laboratory issues a draft report, the company must confirm the information is correct within 3 business days. Late confirmation may incur additional audit fees.
- Report Validity: The UL4200A test report is typically valid for 1-2 years. Retesting is required if the product design or battery model changes.
- Platform Requirements: Amazon US requires the submission of a scanned copy of the report and the GCC certificate (which must include information about the US agent). The product details page must display a compliance warning label.
Key Considerations:
1. Standard Update: The 2023 version of UL4200A needs to be evaluated in conjunction with 16CFR 1263 regulations. Testing alone may not pass CPSC audits.
2. Design Optimization: A dual-action protection design (e.g., screw fixing + snap locking) is recommended for the battery compartment, which can significantly improve the test pass rate.
3. Label Details: Warnings must include mandatory statements such as "Swallowing may cause fatal injury within 2 hours" (for lithium batteries). The font color must have high contrast with the background.
Shen Gongwang Security: 44030602006947