In this work, the electromagnetic emissions of brushless direct current motors (BLDC) are investigated, then the application of spread spectrum techniques is evaluated for use with brushless electric motors. First, the importance of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is outlined. Classical methods for reducing electromagnetic emissions (EME), then modern approaches are reviewed. The theory of operation for spread spectrum modulation (SSM) techniques is introduced for use in EME reduction. Different modulation methods are reviewed, including sinusoidal modulation, cubic modulation, triangular and random modulation. The effectiveness of SSM in EME reduction is discussed.