ANSI/NEMA FL1 Flashlight Standards

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approved the standards developed by the Flashlight Standards Committee of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), with the intent to make flashlight comparisons easier and more logical. Previously, the flashlight industry had no consistent testing or rating system.

The ANSI/NEMA FL1 Flashlight Standards test flashlight performance and features; manufacturers include test results on product labels to help inform consumers.

What This Means for You

The ANSI/NEMA FL1 standards make it easier to select the best flashlight for your portable lighting needs. Manufacturers who complete the ANSI/NEMA FL1 flashlight standard testing publish correlated icons on flashlight packaging. At a glance, you can judge performance levels of these important features such as brightness, beam distance, and more.

ANSI/NEMA FL1 Flashlight Standards Icons & Definitions

These icons and definitions appear on flashlight packing, showing the results of flashing standard testing.

Light Output

Total power of light emitted measured in lumens. The higher the number, the brighter the light.

Peak Beam Intensity

A measurement, given in candela, of the brightest part of the light's beam when optimally focused.

Run Time

The length of time the flashlight will run with the batteries provided until its light output dims to 10%.

Water Resistance

Water splashed against the device shall have no harmful effects. Measured using IPX4 standard.

Beam Distance

Distance measured in meters light will project from its source onto a surface.

Impact Resistance

The distance a device will resist damage when dropped on a solid surface measured in meters.