Euro Access acquired by explosion safety specialist

Ireland-based Euro Access, a manufacturer of aerial platforms for the military and aerospace sectors, has been sold to Pyroban - a specialist in explosion proof safety.

Founded in Cork in 1997 and now an approved supplier to BAE Systems (British Aerospace), Euro Access produces ground support equipment specifically used for the maintenance of military aircraft.

Steve Noakes, managing director of Pyroban, said, “Euro Access fits perfectly within our portfolio because it has great synergies with Pyroban’s innovative, safety-driven culture and bespoke engineering capabilities.”

“It is also aligned with our existing support for many organisations in the military and aerospace sectors and opens up further opportunities to expand our offerings.

“We are proud to be the new owners of Euro Access, starting a new and exciting chapter in the long-standing relationship.”

UK-based Pyroban operates as part of the Longacre Group and offers explosion protection conversions for materials handling equipment and explosion protected diesel engine packages.

It was approached about a possible acquisition by Euro Access off the back of a longstanding relationship with the company’s founders, who were seeking to sell the firm ahead of their retirement.

Pyroban’s relationship with Euro Access began in the 1990s, when it provided the MEWP manufacturer with design input and certification on its original machines.

Noakes said, “The area around each aircraft is formally classified as Zone 1, meaning a potentially explosive atmosphere is likely to occur during normal operations, so the access platform must be explosion proof and meet ATEX 2G compliance.”

“To support safety, Pyroban was involved in the equipment’s original design process and certification in the 1990s with Euro Access’ founders.”

Since then Pyroban, has continued to supply Euro Access with explosion proof kits.

These are fitted to Euro Access’s equipment on the production line, to comply with the European ATEX safety requirements for both workplaces and equipment that are subject to an explosive environment.