Barrier Group is expanding its current workforce at its Wallsend-based facility following the launch of the company’s new LED lighting technology for use in hazardous industries.
In addition to utilising the existing workforces from the company’s Barrier-Ex and Barrier LED divisions, it is expected that production of the new light technology will create five new full-time jobs and two apprenticeships in the next twelve months.
Production of the floodlight will be undertaken in-house at Barrier’s facility in Wallsend, North Tyneside, which has been made possible by significant investment in specialist plant and machinery, and a dedicated workshop.
With help securing funding to support the development of the product, from North Tyneside Council, Barrier has brought together its expertise in hazardous area solutions and LED lighting to create the Quazr, an innovative new hazardous area zone 1 floodlight. As well as funding guidance, North Tyneside Council also provided Barrier with advice on establishing its apprenticeship programme and additional, ongoing training for its workforce.
The Quazr has been designed for use in sectors operating hazardous areas including petrochemical, water and waste treatment, ports and terminals, military and in environments such as distilleries, and pharmaceutical plants.
The technology meets stringent standards laid out in the ATEX Directive, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) and the Low Voltage (LV) Directive. It is also compliant with the BS EN60079-18 standard and will be IECEx certified.
Steven Lee, Managing Director of Barrier-Ex, said: “Quazr is the next step for Barrier Ex and we are excited about its launch. We are confident the product will be a success and the research and development process for the next generation of this product is already underway.
“We have already had firm expressions of interests from customers and are planning to recruit two apprentices and five members of staff to support the scaling up of production, which we are proud to say will take place at our facility on the banks of the River Tyne.”
“I am so proud of how this new team has come together so quickly and hit the ground running with this project. The support of North Tyneside Council has also been invaluable in helping us reach this milestone well ahead of schedule.”
North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn, said: “We are delighted to support Barrier in developing this exciting new product which is creating local jobs and training opportunities. The team at Barrier are investing in Innovation to bring new products to the market, increase efficiency and grow the business in North Tyneside.”