Introduction: Why Safety Sample Preparation Matters
Before safety testing begins, it’s crucial that your product samples and documentation are complete and accurate. Missing information can delay evaluations, cause nonconformities, or require additional testing later.
At MiCOM Labs, safety evaluations verify that your device meets electrical, mechanical, and environmental safety requirements per international standards such as EN 62368-1, EN 61010-1, and EN 60601-1.
1. Overview of Product Safety Testing
Product safety testing evaluates how your device performs under electrical, mechanical, and environmental stress. MiCOM Labs ensures compliance with international and regional safety standards for audio/video, information and communication technology, medical, and industrial devices.
Typical safety evaluations include:
- Construction Review
- Electrical strength and insulation testing
- Leakage current and ground bonding measurements
- Temperature rise during normal and abnormal operation conditions
- Mechanical strength and Mobility
- Markings labels, and documentation verification
2. Sample and Configuration Requirements
Each device sample must be representative of the final production version. The test engineer must have permission to open the device for inspection and testing. If disassembly is restricted, a client representative must be on-site to assist.
Key sample information to provide:
- Type of equipment and model number
- Electrical ratings (voltage, current, power, frequency)
- Power supply type (AC / DC / Battery / Other)
- Battery type (Alkaline, Lithium, Coin Cell, etc.)
- Device dimensions and weight
- Maximum ambient operating temperature
- Mode of operation (continuous / intermittent)
- Operating environment (indoor / outdoor)
- Mobility classification (movable, handheld, fixed, etc.)
- Steps to operate the device at maximum normal load (worst-case condition)
3. Mandatory Documentation Before Testing
The following mandatory documents are required before safety testing can begin:
| Document | Purpose / Notes |
| Bill of Materials (BOM) | Complete list of parts and components for construction review. |
| Schematics | Circuit-level documentation for insulation and safety analysis. |
| User Manual | Confirms intended use, warnings, and operating conditions. |
| Battery Protection Circuitry | Required if the device includes a battery. |
| Battery IEC Test Reports & Certificate | Not required for inherently safe batteries. |
| Power Supply IEC Report & Certificate | Required for devices with internal power supplies. |
| IP Test Report (IEC 60529) | Required for devices designed for outdoor environments. |
| Marking Labels | At least two samples or a datasheet confirming label compliance. |
4. Labeling and Marking Requirements
All labels must comply with applicable regional standards and remain legible throughout the product’s lifetime.
Each label should include:
- Manufacturer’s name and trademark
- Model number and serial number (if applicable)
- Electrical ratings (AC devices: required; DC devices: optional)
- CE, UKCA, or other certification markings
- Battery marking and warning marking (if applicable)
At least two physical label samples for testing purposes or a label datasheet confirming compliance must be supplied for evaluation.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing or incomplete BOM, schematics, or user manuals
- Inaccurate or missing label documentation
- No detailed steps provided for maximum load operation
- Restricting access to internal components without support staff present
- Sending prototype hardware not representative of production models
Providing complete documentation upfront helps prevent schedule delays and rework.
6. Partner with MiCOM Labs
MiCOM Labs’ safety engineers work with clients worldwide to ensure products meet global safety standards efficiently and accurately.
If you need pre-test document or sample review, our team can guide you through the requirements before your samples arrive at the lab.
Contact MiCOM Labs today to schedule your safety testing or verification review: