The Laboratory's operations began in the 1970s with the completion of the construction of the techno-strength hall and its equipping with strength testing machines, measurement and research apparatus, and technological equipment. The techno-strength hall is equipped with a 5-ton overhead crane, strength testing machines with graduated force ranges from 30 to 6000 kN, and a designated section - a concrete mixer used for preparing concrete mix. Destructive tests of full-scale structural elements are conducted on a surface with increased foundation slab thickness (known as the "great forces slab").
The Laboratory's activities have always been linked to science, research for the economy, and education, primarily covering concrete as a building material as well as reinforced concrete and prestressed structures. Within scientific activities, doctoral and habilitation theses, research projects, and development projects have been completed; within research activities, this includes, among others, tests of plate-column structures, prestressed beams, strengthening of reinforced concrete elements using carbon fiber composite materials, and concrete elements with composite reinforcement.
The Laboratory specializes in testing full-scale building structural elements. These are medium-sized and large-scale elements made of concrete, reinforced concrete, and prestressed concrete, with various cross-sectional shapes and intended uses.
Research conducted for the economy primarily includes strength tests as well as tests of physical properties of building materials and products, and diagnostics of structural elements "in situ" (including non-destructive testing). The apparatus and research equipment used in testing are under constant metrological supervision.
The Laboratory's staff consists of individuals with knowledge and many years of experience in the scope of conducted research. The qualified engineering personnel is supported by scientific and technical staff. The competencies, knowledge, and experience of the Laboratory's employees, along with adherence to established research procedures and quality policy, resulted in the Laboratory obtaining accreditation from the Polish Accreditation Centre on October 1, 2004 (Accreditation Certificate No. AB 536). The last verification of accreditation entitlements took place in August 2020.