The tests designed by the NFPA for the NRTL’s (UL, TUV, etc)  to perform were created to allow firefighters the ability to compare different brands of rescue tools under the same scientific conditions or tests, conducted by a third party.  Rescue tool manufacturer’s were getting and still are getting out of line with the forces they are publishing for their respective tools.  Most rescue tool companies publish an engineering calculated force, instead of a tested measured force like Genesis.  The tests that are conducted allow the simple firefighter to compare rescue tools on a MEASURED test, which should eliminate the effect of the false advertising by rescue tool manufacturers.  Unfortunately, it does not for one simple reason:  Firefighters assume that NFPA compliancy was done only for safety and legal reasons.  The majority of firefighters don’t know that in order to be NFPA compliant you must test the tools to these specific criteria, and PUBLISH THE RESULTS.  That is why rescue tool manufacturers are still publishing the calculated maximum forces, and showing up claiming over 200,000lbs of cutting force, but are not able to cut a “B” post.  That’s why at Genesis we say, “SHOW US YOUR NUMBERS.”   Most of the work has been done by the NFPA and the respective 3rd party testing groups (UL, TUV, etc) for the Fire Department looking to purchase rescue tools.   A  Fire Department should be able to narrow their choices of tools down to two or three competitors, based just on NFPA ratings.  Then the Department can schedule the appropriate demonstrations to determine other factors such as ergonomics, speed of operation, etc.  To view an example of published NFPA ratings click here.