Powering Safe and Reliable Control Panels

10 Jun 2026

How Intertek Helps Panel Builders Simplify Compliance and Build with Confidence

Industrial control panels play a central role in the safe and reliable operation of machinery and process equipment. Whether in manufacturing plants, data centers, or specialized automation environments, control panels must meet well-established requirements for electrical safety, component compatibility, and documentation. For panel builders, navigating these requirements can be complex, especially when serving clients across multiple industries.

Intertek’s Panel Shop Program provides a structured approach for evaluating and labeling industrial control panels while supporting consistency and clarity in compliance. This blog explains key elements of the program and highlights why panel builders find value in participating.

Understanding the Purpose of a Panel Shop Program

Intertek’s Panel Shop program provides panel builders with a framework for designing, assembling, and labeling industrial control panels in accordance with widely used standards – UL 508A and CSA C22.2 No. 286. Through training and ongoing factory inspections panel builders demonstrate that their panels are constructed according to defined requirements, supporting confidence in safety and consistency.

This structure benefits shops that produce both standard and custom panels, allowing them to address varied customer needs while maintaining alignment with technical expectations.

Key Considerations in Choosing a Panel Shop Certification Partner

1. Component Selection and Compatibility

Intertek’s Panel Shop program provides manufacturers with flexibility in component sourcing. The Panel Shop program permits manufacturers to use all components that are appropriately approved, not restricting manufacturers to only those certified by specific agencies. Industrial control panels rely on a wide range of components, such as overcurrent devices, switches, relays, power supplies, terminal blocks, and more. Manufacturers are responsible for verifying and documenting that components are used within their electrical and environmental ratings, as well as the component manufacturer’s instructions. This also includes any restrictions on their use that may be required for the component certification to be valid.

Using appropriately rated components helps ensure that the panel can operate safely under expected conditions. Intertek’s flexibility allows panel builders to source the best components for their equipment.

2. Expert Training

Intertek’s global network of Panel Shop trainers provide up-to-date training on the latest editions of UL 508A and CSA C22.2 No. 286 to your team. Intertek recognizes that your team of electricians, engineers, and project managers are already experts in panels, and this training focuses on the key elements they need to consider demonstrating conformity with the standards.

The initial training is provided in person to your teams to allow for the most effective experience and to permit your team to ask our Intertek experts questions about your unique designs.

3. Testing and Ongoing Conformance

Panel Shop programs vary in their structure and requirements, which can include requirements for initial and ongoing written examinations. Intertek does not require any written examinations. Our trainers review your current designs to verify that your panels meet the requirements of the standards.

As the standards update, Intertek will review the changes and issue Standard Update Notices (SUNs). As the standards evolve, updated training will be required. Intertek’s program offers flexibility with this training and provides it in person or virtually. This maximizes manufacturer’s choices.

4. Rollovers and Transfers

Where manufacturers are already approved under another certification agency’s panel shop program, the manufacturer can transfer or rollover the program to Intertek. Intertek provides training to manufacturers on some of the unique elements of our Panel Shop Program and reviews your responsibilities – but does not require full training to the requirements of the standard. In many cases, transfers can be completed efficiently, allowing manufacturers to begin applying the ETL Mark shortly after enrollment.

Supporting Diverse Industry Needs

Control panels are used across sectors that have unique requirements, such as automation, HVAC, water treatment, energy, and process industries. A panel shop program provides a scalable approach that supports both high-volume production and specialized, one-off panel designs. As markets evolve, the program structure helps shops adapt to new technologies, application requirements, or regulatory expectations.

Conclusion

Industrial control panels are foundational elements of modern automation and electrical systems. A panel shop program provides panel builders with a clear and structured method for demonstrating that their designs meet established safety and performance expectations. By following defined technical requirements and maintaining consistent manufacturing practices, panel builders can support safe and dependable operations across a broad range of industries.