Lighting Inspection: Types of Tests and Global Standards

4. Photometric Test

• Luminous flux: Measures total light output in lumens.
• Luminous efficacy: Evaluates how efficiently the light source converts electricity into light.
• Color Rendering Index (CRI): Assesses how accurately colors appear under the light.
• Correlated Color Temperature (CCT): Determines if the light has a warm (e.g., 2700K) or cool (e.g., 6500K) hue.
• Beam angle: Important for task or directional lighting applications.

5. Thermal Test

• Temperature rise test: Ensures that the lighting fixture does not exceed safe temperature limits during use.
• Thermal management: Evaluates heat dissipation capabilities, especially critical for LEDs.

6. Mechanical Test

• Drop test: Assesses durability during transportation.
• Vibration test: Especially important for automotive or outdoor lighting.
• Torque test: Checks the strength and reliability of screw fittings.

7. Ingress Protection (IP) Test

• Evaluates the product’s resistance to dust and water.
• IP ratings like IP65, IP67 are especially important for outdoor lighting.

8. EMC/EMI Test (Electromagnetic Compatibility/Interference)

• Ensures the lighting product does not interfere with or is not affected by other electronic devices.
• Required by most markets for compliance.

9. Endurance and Lifespan Testing

• Simulates long-term use to verify manufacturer claims.
• Typically involves operating the product for thousands of hours.

10. Material & Component Verification

• Confirms the use of certified or approved components (e.g., drivers, LEDs, cables).
• Ensures flame-retardant and RoHS-compliant materials are used.

Read more about the Solar Light Inspection Service

Global Lighting Standards and Regulations

Different markets have their own set of lighting standards and regulatory requirements. Here’s a summary of key standards across major regions:

1. United States

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories): Safety standard for electrical devices.
• FCC Part 15: EMC compliance for electronic devices.
• Energy Star: Efficiency certification for residential and commercial lighting.
• IESNA LM-79 / LM-80: Testing standards for LED performance and lifetime.

2. European Union

• CE Marking: Mandatory for most electrical goods.
• EN/IEC 60598: Safety standard for luminaires.
• ErP Directive: Energy-related Products Directive requires efficiency labeling.
• RoHS Directive: Restriction of hazardous substances in electrical equipment.
• REACH: Addresses chemical safety.

3. China

• CCC (China Compulsory Certification): Mandatory for products entering the Chinese market.
• GB Standards: National standards governing product safety and performance.
• CQC Mark: Voluntary certification indicating quality.

4. Japan

• PSE Mark (Product Safety Electrical Appliance & Material): Required for most electrical devices sold in Japan.
• JIS Standards: Japanese Industrial Standards covering safety and performance.

5. Australia/New Zealand

• RCM (Regulatory Compliance Mark): Required for electrical safety and EMC.
• MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standards): Mandatory for energy efficiency.

6. Middle East

• SASO (Saudi Arabia): Lighting products require SASO quality mark and energy efficiency labeling.
• G Mark (Gulf Conformity Mark): Mandatory for electrical products sold in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

7. India

• BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards): IS 10322 and IS 16101 are relevant lighting standards.
• BEE Star Rating: Indicates energy efficiency.

Challenges in Lighting Inspection

1. Constantly Evolving Standards

Regulatory changes require continuous updates in testing protocols and compliance strategies.

2. Variety in Product Types

From streetlights to smart lighting systems, inspection methods need to adapt to product complexity.

3. Global Supply Chains

Products are often designed in one country, manufactured in another and sold globally, each with different requirements.

4. Cost vs. Quality Balance

Brands are under pressure to reduce costs, which can affect material choices and quality assurance.

The Role of Third-Party Inspection Companies

Engaging a professional third-party inspection company helps mitigate the risks associated with substandard lighting products. Services offered include:

• Initial-production checks (IPC) - An Initial Production Check (IPC) is performed at the stage of about 10%-30% products finished for quality control inspection. It is the first step in ensuring the quality of your product will be consistent throughout production
• During production inspections (DUPRO) - During Production Check (DUPRO) is an essential preventative measure taken in the early stages of production, which can mitigate costly mistakes in the long run by highlighting any problems before too many defective items are produced and avoid affecting the shipping schedule
• Final Random inspections (FRI) - Final Random inspections (FRI) inspections act as a final check to evaluate product quality, packaging, product labeling and carton markings and ensure that items are correctly packed and fit for their intended use. The FRI takes place at 100% production completed with a minimum of 80% of goods packed and seated in shipping cartons for verification of your purchase specifications
• Factory audits and supplier verification - A factory audit is the assessment for production capability and performance of a factory against proven quality principles. Every production site needs reliable manufacturing and quality control systems to ensure customers are satisfied with their products
• Lab testing and certification - Lab testing is the scientific evaluation of a product to verify safety, performance and compliance with standards. Certification is the official confirmation by a third party that a product meets regulatory or industry requirements.

These services ensure that lighting products meet customer requirements and comply with relevant international standards before they are shipped.

FAQs

Q1. What’s the difference between LM-79 and LM-80?

A: LM-79 measures LED performance (light output, efficacy, etc.) under specific conditions. LM-80 measures lumen maintenance over time (i.e., how long the LED retains its brightness).

Q2. Can a product be certified for multiple countries at once?

A: Some certifications (like CB Scheme) help in obtaining multiple national certifications, but usually, individual approvals are needed for different markets.

Q3. How long does a lighting inspection take?

A: A pre-shipment inspection for a typical lighting order takes 1–2 days, while laboratory tests may take 1–4 weeks depending on the tests required.

Testcoo can help you with Third Party Lighting Inspections

Lighting inspection is an essential quality control measure in today’s competitive and highly regulated market. Whether you're a lighting manufacturer, retailer, importer or brand owner, understanding the inspection process and applicable global standards is crucial for product success. Integrate a robust lighting inspection process by partnering with Testcoo. We help companies keeping their customers safe. If you’re in the lighting business and need support with quality inspections, compliance or lab testing, contact us to can simplify your journey and help you shine in your market.