REFLEX Marine has seen demand grow globally for its Toro crew-transfer capsule and said yesterday it had sold 30 across offshore Asia-Pacific, Europe, Africa, Australia and America since its launch in February, 2009.
The marine personnel-transfer specialist said most of the units were being utilised by major international oil and gas operators, however, it has also sold four for use on wind-turbine installation barges.
Reflex, which manufactures in Aberdeen but has its main office at Truro, said safe passage to offshore wind turbines for workers was still a key concern for operators, with access required all year-round for maintenance or unplanned interventions.
The vertically winched Toro can carry up to four passengers, protecting them from side impact and heavy landings and is buoyant and self righting.
The protected body position and seat design allow it to be used without seatbelts.
Reflex business-development director David Brittan, said: “The Toro was developed in direct response to industry demand for a low-cost transfer device which still maintained high levels of passenger protection and operational performance.
“With operators scrutinising their budgets, we feel the Toro can offer a cost-effective and truly safe alternative to more established forms of traditional transfer baskets.”
Reflex said Toro had achieved £224,000 in sales in the financial year to May 2010, in which the company’s turnover was £2.35million.