It wasn’t that long ago that the old mezzanine laboratory at the back of Fuller Industries Inc.’s factory was a dingy repository for old, obsolete equipment. Now, the space is undergoing a major renovation.

A new floor and freshly painted walls will soon greet new, high-tech instruments and highly trained technicians.

“Initially, we’ll be using the lab to bolster our process control efforts,” said Chris Cowles, Fuller’s vice president of operations. “This is an important step as we continue our focus on making sure every product that leaves this plant meets our rigorous quality standards.”

Process control involves using standardized processes to monitor and regulate production, ensuring consistent product quality from batch to batch, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. The new lab will allow the longtime commercial and industrial cleaning product maker to expand on these efforts.

But the plans go further, Cowles said.

“We will use the lab for research and development when we bring some of that in-house,” he said. “That’s pretty exciting.”

The rehabilitated area is directly above Fuller’s quality control lab. The two departments will work hand in hand as the company continues its legacy of innovation, Cowles said.

Work on the lab is ongoing and there is no definite timeline for completion.