Amazon Requires GCC Certificate and UL4200A Report

Recently, Amazon has started requiring the GCC certificate and the UL4200A test report.

Button Cells Overview:

Button cells, also known as coin cells, are small, button-shaped batteries. Generally, they have a larger diameter compared to their thickness (unlike cylindrical batteries, such as AA batteries). Button cells are categorized based on their shape, alongside other types like cylindrical, square, and irregular batteries.

Due to their stable discharge characteristics, button cells provide long-lasting, reliable power and are widely used in a variety of electronic products, including:

- Computer motherboards

- Storage cards

- Music cards

- Calculators

- Electronic clocks

- Toys

- Medical devices

- Small appliances

However, if not handled properly or accidentally ingested, button cells can pose safety risks.

Safety Concerns:

In recent years, the number of deaths and serious injuries related to button cells has increased. In response, the UL 4200A:2023 standard came into effect in the U.S. on October 23, 2023. This standard is specifically designed for products containing button or coin cells.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has provided a 180-day enforcement grace period from September 21, 2023, to March 19, 2024, with the official enforcement date set for March 19, 2024.

UL4200A Standard Overview:

The UL4200A standard focuses on the safety of products with removable batteries, particularly household consumer products. The primary goal is to ensure that batteries are placed securely to reduce the risk of children swallowing them.

Key points of the UL4200A standard include:

- Products must be designed so that users can easily open the battery compartment but require a tool to access the battery.

- The battery installation must be secure, ensuring that it cannot be easily removed after installation.

- The requirements supplement other safety standards to ensure comprehensive product safety.

UL4200A Report:

The UL4200A report evaluates the safety of consumer products containing button or coin cells based on the UL4200A standard.

The report includes:

- Detailed compliance with the UL4200A standard, such as product structure, battery fixation, and abuse test results.

- For products with batteries that can be moved or replaced by the user, the report evaluates whether the battery is easily accessible and if the compartment cover is securely fixed.

- For products with batteries that cannot be moved or replaced by the user, the report ensures that children or users cannot remove the battery.

Abuse Testing:

The report includes abuse test results, evaluating whether the battery compartment cover or door maintains normal function during situations like drops.

Key abuse tests:

1. Probe Test (IEC61032): Ensures the battery is not accessible. If the product’s case can be opened without tools or by hand in fewer than two independent actions, it must be evaluated.

2. Child Protection: The product must be designed so that tools (e.g., screwdrivers) are required to open the battery compartment, or at least two independent actions are needed to open the cover or door.

3. Fasteners: If the cover or door is secured by screws or similar fasteners, these fasteners must remain captive.

4. Battery Inaccessibility: Batteries must either be inaccessible through design or securely fixed by methods like soldering or riveting.

Steps to Obtain UL4200A Test Report for Button Cells:

1. Select a Qualified Testing Agency  

Choose an agency with the qualifications and experience to provide UL testing. The agency will conduct UL4200A testing and evaluation.

2. Prepare Documentation  

Provide detailed product specifications, design drawings, manuals, and other related documents that meet UL4200A requirements.

3. Confirm Test Items  

Communicate with the agency to confirm that UL4200A applies to your product and identify the necessary tests.

4. Submit Product for Testing  

Provide the product containing button cells for testing. The agency will perform tests such as drop tests, impact tests, and compression tests according to UL4200A standards.

5. Review Draft Report  

Review the draft report to ensure all information is correct.

6. Receive Final Report  

Once confirmed, the agency will issue the official UL4200A test report.

Cost & Service:

JJR Lab in China provides UL4200A testing services along with the GCC certificate for $698. Feel free to inquire!