UL, or Underwriters Laboratories, is a global safety certification organization that tests and certifies products to ensure they meet specific safety standards. Founded in 1894, UL evaluates a wide range of products, including electrical devices, appliances, and building materials, to help protect consumers and promote safe practices. The organization provides certification marks, such as the familiar UL logo, which indicates that a product has been tested and meets rigorous safety criteria. This certification helps manufacturers demonstrate compliance with safety regulations and gives consumers confidence in the products they use in their homes and workplaces.