UL Solutions Launches Global Fire Science Center of Excellence to Advance Fire Safety Testing and Innovation
UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS), a global leader in applied safety science, has announced the creation of a state-of-the-art Global Fire Science Center of Excellence in Northbrook, Illinois. This new multi-laboratory infrastructure will enable manufacturers of fire safety products and building materials to test, certify, and innovate with confidence. Located on UL Solutions’ 110-acre campus north of Chicago, the facility represents a significant investment in fire safety research, testing, and certification services, further solidifying the company’s leadership position in the fire safety, security, and construction industries.
A Legacy of Fire Safety Leadership
Since its founding more than 130 years ago, UL Solutions has been driven by a mission to make the world a safer place. Fire safety testing has always been at the heart of its operations, deeply rooted in the company’s founding principles.
“Fire safety testing is at the core of our business and aligns with our commitment to public safety,” said Jennifer Scanlon, president and CEO of UL Solutions. “As we continue to innovate and expand our capabilities, fire safety remains a cornerstone of our mission to protect lives and property while advancing safety science globally.”
The new Fire Science Center of Excellence builds on this legacy, offering enhanced research capabilities and advanced testing services for a wide range of fire safety and building products. From commercial and residential sprinklers to fire-resistant façades and compartmentation systems, the facility is designed to meet the evolving needs of manufacturers, regulators, and consumers worldwide.
Cutting-Edge Testing and Certification Services
The Global Fire Science Center of Excellence will provide comprehensive testing and certification services for a variety of fire safety products, including:
- Sprinklers, systems, fittings, and valves: Ensuring these critical components meet stringent performance standards.
- Portable extinguishers: Evaluating their effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
- Foam concentrates and additives: Assessing their ability to suppress fires efficiently.
- Façades, partitions, and compartmentation systems: Testing their fire resistance to prevent the spread of flames and smoke.
The facility will also feature real-world testing environments, allowing customers to evaluate the performance of fire protection systems under realistic conditions. This capability is essential for meeting building codes, insurance requirements, and regulatory compliance while supporting efforts to protect property and save lives.
With the ability to test fire safety and building products primarily from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, the center will serve as a hub for global innovation. Manufacturers can leverage the facility’s advanced infrastructure to ensure their products meet international standards and are ready for sale worldwide.
Advancing Research and Development in Fire Safety
In addition to its testing and certification services, the Fire Science Center of Excellence will house an Applied Research and Development (R&D) center. This collaborative space will bring together manufacturers, consultants, professional associations, industry groups, and standards development committees to address emerging challenges in fire safety.
By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the R&D center aims to minimize risks associated with new product development and accelerate innovation timelines. This proactive approach ensures that the industry stays ahead of evolving safety demands while maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance.
“With over a century of experience as a global leader in fire safety testing, UL Solutions has amassed unparalleled expertise,” said Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the Built Environment Division at UL Solutions. “By combining this deep knowledge with the capabilities of our new Fire Science Center of Excellence, we are empowering our customers to innovate and create safer solutions for generations to come.”
The UL Mark: A Symbol of Trust
For decades, the UL mark has been synonymous with safety and reliability. Products bearing the UL mark have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure they meet applicable safety standards. This mark serves as a trusted symbol for users, inspectors, designers, architects, and regulatory authorities worldwide.
The new Fire Science Center of Excellence reinforces UL Solutions’ commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fire safety testing and certification. By investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and expanding its capabilities, UL Solutions continues to set the benchmark for safety science in the global marketplace.
Driving Innovation and Safety Worldwide
The launch of the Global Fire Science Center of Excellence underscores UL Solutions’ dedication to advancing fire safety and protecting lives. By providing manufacturers with access to world-class testing facilities, research opportunities, and certification services, the center will play a pivotal role in driving innovation across the fire safety and construction industries.
As fire safety regulations become increasingly complex and demanding, UL Solutions remains at the forefront of addressing these challenges. The new center not only strengthens the company’s leadership position but also supports its mission to make the world a safer place through applied safety science.
