BRADFORD-ON-AVON, England (June 21)—Avon Rubber P.L.C. has bought International Safety Instruments Inc., a Lawrenceville, Ga.-based maker of respiratory protection equipment and thermal imaging systems, including respirators used by first responders and military personnel involved in chemical, biological radiological and nuclear accidents or attacks.
The acquisition, for an undisclosed amount, is a "key element" of Avon's growth strategy for its newly created protection division, Avon Protection Systems, Avon said.
The new division was set up to address the respiratory protection needs of those who have to make the first response to Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear attack globally, Avon said. APS builds on Avon´s long track record in design and manufacture of NBC respirators, the group added.
"Avon´s unparalleled face-piece-design capability, materials development experience, and filtration technologies, together with ISI´s pneumatics, head-up display, telemetry and communications integration achievements, allow a range of powerful development opportunities," said Jonty Palmer, APS managing director, emphasizing the complementary nature of the two companies´ technologies.
"Together we will enhance our protection services to our existing customers whilst offering the potential of truly innovative solutions to current and future first responders and military users globally," Palmer added in Avon´s statement on the purchase.
Fire-fighters, military personnel, law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel increasingly require flexible protection from their equipment, said Avon. ISI has a lot of experience and a reputation for innovation in complementary Self Contained Breathing Apparatus and related technologies.