User:Nate at Perrill/GearGrid
American public safety and industrial storage manufacturer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
GearGrid LLC is an American manufacturing company based in Forest Lake, Minnesota, that specializes in the design and fabrication of specialized storage systems for fire departments, EMS, and Law enforcement.[1] Established in 1921, the company is known for its ventilated "open-grid" locker designs, which are utilized by major municipal agencies including the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), Los Angeles Fire Department, and Houston Fire Department.[2]
Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Manufacturing, Public safety equipment |
| Founded | 1921 |
| Headquarters | Forest Lake, Minnesota, U.S. |
Area served | Global |
| Products | PPE storage, fire station lockers |
| Website | www |
History
The company was founded in 1921 as a contract manufacturing firm specializing in wire forming and metal fabrication.[3] Originally known as Mid-Minnesota Wire, the firm focused on retail displays and OEM components for nearly 80 years.[3]
In 1997, a new product line was developed specifically for the firefighting market. The "GearGrid" design was created to address health and safety risks associated with improperly dried personal protective equipment (PPE). Standard lockers often trapped moisture, leading to the growth of bacteria and the retention of carcinogens in turnout gear; the GearGrid "open-grid" system allowed for 360-degree ventilation to accelerate the drying process.[2] In 2008, the company rebranded to GearGrid LLC to reflect its transition into a specialized public safety infrastructure provider.[4]
Operations
GearGrid operates a production facility in Forest Lake, Minnesota. The company holds several U.S. patents for its modular storage racks, including designs for pivoting panels and wall-mounted "furring" systems that allow installation over exposed conduit and pipes.[1]
The company is a vetted supplier through national cooperative procurement platforms, including a lead public agency contract through the League of Oregon Cities.[4] This status allows municipal governments to bypass traditional bidding processes when purchasing public safety equipment.[4] In addition to fire and EMS, the company provides storage for the Minnesota Vikings and various NCAA athletic programs.[3]
Awards
In 2012, GearGrid was one of ten recipients of the Governor's International Trade Award, presented by Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton.[3][5] The award recognized the company's expansion into global markets, including the United Kingdom and Germany, as a representative of American manufacturing.[5]
See also
- Firefighter health and safety
- Turnout gear
- List of companies based in Minnesota