Safe Approach Inc.
Owner Roger Dargie
Company’s origin story: Safe Approach Inc. was founded by me in 1992. Prior to this company, I owned a portable machine shop called Mobile Maintenance Mechanic. While operating this company, I invented a product called the Hatch Net. This invention led to other safety devices and patents as well. Mobile Maintenance was sold and Safe Approach started.
Number of employees/locations: SAI employs 15 people in Poland.
You’re at a dinner party. You’re asked, ‘What does your company make?’ And you say . . . We are the largest fall protection manufacturer east of the Mississippi. We manufacture anything to do with webbing and rope, which is followed by a full metal fabrication shop. These products are used nationwide on buildings and bridges, all designed to protect people from falling into or off of things.
Who — and where — are your customers? Our (Maine) customers would be Cianbro, Reed & Reed, Bancroft Construction, along with many smaller construction companies.
Hardest thing about doing business in Maine? Dealing with insurance costs! Workman’s comp, general liability, product liability and health care.
The best? Having people that take such pride in their work. The employees understand that they save lives daily and take such pride in knowing this.
That thing that sets you apart from the competition: We pride ourselves on making a stellar product with exceptional customer service.
Maine makes it
From awnings to espresso machines, to what one inventor hopes is the next great idea in gaming, manufacturing is slowly rebounding in Maine. Here are some examples:
- Fabricating awnings in Auburn
- Making electronics in Winthrop
- Fighting falls in Poland
- Making firefighter boots in Auburn
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