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Photo Courtesy of Clear Sign & Design
Photo Courtesy of Clear Sign & Design
 

UL 48 Standard for Electric Signs

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ISA helps develop these standards and can provide sign companies with guidance on how to comply. For more information on UL electric sign issues, contact Kenny Peskin, Director of Industry Programs. 

 

In the United States, electric signs must comply with the provisions of the National Electric Code Article 600 and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) 48 Standard for Electric Signs.

Now in its 15th edition, UL 48 requirements cover all electric signs, art forms, outline lighting and skeleton neon tubing. For decades, ISA has taken a leading role in the development of UL Standards that keep pace with advances in electric sign technology.

Since its first edition in 1917, UL 48 has developed norms and guidelines that have harmonized the design and manufacture of electric signs that operate safely.

Other related UL Standards, such as UL 879 Standard for Electric Sign Components and UL 2161 Standard for Neon Transformers and Power Supplies, develop the requirements for components designed for use in UL 48 electric signs. UL 48 is being revised continuously, with the 15th edition published in 2011. Since the initial release of the 15th edition, UL 48 was revised six times. (UL 48 and other standards are now available for purchase in the UL Shop.)

UL now allows open-access online views for its entire library. Visit UL Shop to access other standards.

*Though the new Digital View feature is available with a free registration, the Digital View does not allow the reader to download or print the standard and is limited to a page-by-page view.