SGS Addresses Key Technical BESS Updates in UL 9540A:2026 for the US and Canada
BAAR, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / June 30, 2026 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 068.26, reporting on regulatory developments in battery energy safety storage system (BESS) safety standards, as set out in ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A:2026.
Independent, performance-driven fire validation is at the center of compliant deployment. The shift from guidance-based frameworks to mandatory, performance-driven verification in ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A:2026 marks a significant change in the demonstration of fire safety that directly impacts system design, testing strategies and certification timelines.
The safety of outdoor ground-mounted systems is now measured under a ‘passive-first’ philosophy, requiring validation of thermal runaway containment without reliance on active systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) or fire suppression systems. Systems must maintain structural integrity and prevent propagation under loss-of-power conditions. This is particularly crucial in offshore and remote environments.
ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A:2026 establishes a higher safety threshold across the industry, requiring comprehensive gap analysis, particularly in passive containment and deflagration control. The transition demands a more integrated engineering approach, with early communication between design teams and certification experts being critical to avoiding delays, controlling costs and ensuring timely market access.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 068.26 includes further information on ANSI/CAN/UL 9540A:2026, including analysis of key provisions.
Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 068.26 for more details
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SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Navigating The Shift: Key Technical Updates In UL 9540A 6th Edition SafeGuardS.
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For further information, contact Media Inquiries or:
Prathamesh Panchal
Director, Business Development (Battery and Hazardous Locations)
Tel: +1 (404) 565-3005
Website: www.sgs.com/ee
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
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