UK’s largest cable testing facility launched

The British Approvals Service for Cables (Basec) board of management has announced the completion of a new 18,000 sq ft world-class cable testing laboratory. The facility, which has also become Basec’s new head office, is the largest dedicated testing laboratory for cables in the UK.

Basec has made a significant investment in the new laboratory, including the commissioning of brand new test equipment. Basec’s previous arrangement for testing with the British Standards Institution (BSI) has been concluded and staff and equipment have been transferred to Basec. New fire performance testing capabilities will be commissioned in mid-2012, and there are further plans for additional test capabilities, cable types and product areas.

“This is a very exciting time for Basec.” said Jeremy Hodge, chief executive at Basec. “The world-class facility aims to be a centre of excellence for cable testing, it is already operational and will be managed and run by the Basec team. Our intended benefits for our clients are increased efficiency and more rapid turn-around of samples. We will be expanding the range of services to cover fire and other tests, for the benefit of our clients holding Basec approvals. In addition, the laboratory will be offering a competitive service to other parties directly.”