A LEADING safety science company has announced it will be expanding in Basingstoke.

UL announced last week it has expanded its capacity and capabilities in its facilities in Wade Road.

The company said this is to address the UK’s growing demand for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and wireless testing and certification services.

This investment now makes it one of the largest commercial EMC and wireless test facilities in the UK. It adds 37,000 square feet to the current facility, tripling its size, of which 15,000 square feet is dedicated to EMC and wireless testing.

As technology continues to advance, new developments such as 5G and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will continue to alter consumer buying habits and increase awareness of issues, including security and interoperability, which UL works on.

General manager consumer technology at UL, Phil Davies, said: “This is another great moment in the development of UL’s compliance services in the UK.

"The significant investment in new facilities will offer a service solution with state-of-the-art, custom-designed chambers and sophisticated equipment.

“Due to the enormous demand we’ve seen, we’re raising the bar in terms of service excellence, and by partnering with our customers, we fully expect to grow and develop further.

"This also results in new job opportunities whether in engineering, sales, marketing, finance or HR.”

Upon completion of the expansion, UL’s Basingstoke headcount will grow to 250 people.