Resources and FAQs for the UL Technical Evaluation Developer Program

UL Solutions has launched the Technical Evaluation Developer Program to enhance the quality and consistency of Engineering Judgments (EJs) used in the fire protection industry. EJs address scenarios where as-built assemblies do not match tested and qualified systems, and their acceptance by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) can vary across North America. The program aims to establish a structured framework to verify the competency of service providers by setting standards for Technical Personnel Competency, conducting Audits, and performing Certification Testing. Participants must demonstrate knowledge of fire protection standards, pass relevant exams, and adhere to rigorous auditing and testing processes. By increasing testing and certification efforts, UL seeks to reduce low-quality EJs in the market and ensure that solutions meet life safety requirements, providing greater confidence and consistency for AHJs and installing contractors.

The Technical Evaluation Developer Program (TEDP) is a voluntary accreditation program from UL Solutions designed to improve the quality, consistency, and credibility of engineering judgments (which UL refers to as “technical evaluations” for the purposes of this program) in the firestop industry. It sets rigorous requirements for manufacturers to follow a formalized, documented process for developing evaluations used when listed firestop systems aren’t available.

UL developed the TEDP to address gaps in training, consistency, and technical quality across engineering judgments. The goal is to raise industry standards, build trust among code officials and contractors, and provide a framework for improving the content and transparency of firestop evaluations.

Manufacturers that already work with UL Solutions for firestop product testing and certification are eligible. Participants must demonstrate technical knowledge, pass an exam, implement a quality management system, undergo audits, and agree to random fire testing of selected technical evaluations.

An EJ (or technical evaluation) is a documented opinion issued by a manufacturer that addresses a unique or untested firestop condition using engineering rationale based on tested systems. While they are not a substitute for testing, they are often necessary due to complex or novel construction scenarios.

TEDP includes:

  • Documented quality systems for issuing evaluations
  • Technical competency requirements for EJ authors
  • Peer review procedures
  • UL-administered technical competency exams (must pass with 80%+)
  • Randomized lab fire testing of selected technical evaluations
  • Listing of approved developers in UL Product iQ

Authorized TEDP participants are listed in UL’s Product iQ database under the WYGB listing category. These listings confirm that a company has met all TEDP program requirements.

No. TEDP is a voluntary program, but it offers significant benefits in quality assurance and recognition. Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) and project teams are encouraged to seek firestop manufacturers who participate in TEDP for added confidence in EJs.

  • More reliable and consistent technical evaluations
  • Greater transparency and accountability
  • Enhanced trust for AHJs, designers, and contractors
  • Support for code compliance and life safety
  • Fewer repeat EJs and more tested, listed systems over time

If a randomly selected EJ fails laboratory testing, the manufacturer is notified and given the opportunity to revise and retest the system. The results remain confidential unless voluntarily disclosed by the company.

TEDP helps manufacturers strengthen internal processes, improve EJ documentation, validate internal training procedures, and demonstrate a higher level of commitment to safety and quality. It also helps inform product development and future testing priorities.

Visit www.ul.com and search for “Technical Evaluation Developer Program” to access the full program details and downloadable documentation. You can also explore UL-qualified companies through UL Product iQ.

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