By Alan and Suzanne Whitewood
Founded 40 years ago, Sea Safe Systems, the Cowes based marine safety clothing and equipment manufacturer has now re-located to larger premises on Somerton Business Park. A new 8000 square foot industrial unit is the result of a £500,000 investment.
At the official opening, managing director Jeremy Dale described it as the culmination of forty years effort. He thanked the “great team” of employees and contractors who had transformed the shell of the building in the ten weeks since July, and Jill Dale was presented with a bouquet.
Jeremy explained how the company was set up in 1966 by Captain Stanley Coe, a sea going pilot. Although their new home is four times larger than their previous base, there is further room to add a second floor within the unit if necessary. There were also plans to expand the company by moving into the European market.
M.P. Andrew Turner was on hand to officially open the premises. After researching the company Andrew referred to Sea Safe as one of the hidden gems to be found on the Island. It had truly developed and delivered worldwide. Summing up, the M.P. said he knew the company’s aim was to grow steadily. It was a wise move and he wished them the very best for the future.
Over the last year eleven pilots have died in accidents at sea worldwide. Therefore, it is important that when at sea, pilots are well equipped in order to give them a chance of surviving long enough in the water before a rescue is executed.
Pilots from the Port of London Authority use Sea Safe life jackets and personal locator beacons. In all, the authority covers a vast area, from Harwich in the North to Ramsgate in the South as well as most of the River Thames. They are responsible for 12 river pilots and 70 sea pilots.
Sea Safe’s new building boasts a cutting room, an assembly/sewing room and areas where the garments are finished off and packaged. Depending on the material used in construction all inside seams are sealed by either adhesive bindings or bonding tape, which guarantee a waterproof finish.
In the few months since its launch, Sea Safe’s new Hypo Hoist Man Overboard recovery system has created a huge media interest. Student inventor Tanya Budd has gained numerous awards including the U.S. Coastguard Award for Maritime Safety in 2006. Tanya also landed the prestigious title Young Engineer for Britain 2005-2006. An important feature of this system is that it can be deployed by just one person.
In early 2007 Sea Safe will have a range of leisure jackets available to boat owners and water sports enthusiasts. Looking after the retail side of the business is Keith Friar. Meanwhile, with an eye on the future, David Price has been appointed Business Development Manager