A new laboratory offering local manufacturers, retailers and service providers a variety of testing and certification programs has been opened in Irvine by TÜV Rheinland. The programs include product safety, ZigBee Alliance and market access certifications for Smart Grid, medical, lighting, information technology and electrical equipment. Corporate social responsibility audits and programs also are offered. The 5300-sq-ft office expands the company’s existing network of laboratories in the US, which include those in Pleasanton, Calif., Newtown, Conn., Boxborough, Mass., and Austin, Texas. The international company is based in Cologne, Germany. The company will hold an open house on Wednesday, Aug. 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Irvine laboratory. Engineers and technicians specializing in wireless and medical devices, solar products, global market access and EMC approvals, as well as product safety and environmental compliance, are encouraged to attend. For more information, visit: www.tuv.com