MSA Acquires Microsensor Systems Inc.

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MSA announced today that it has acquired Microsensor Systems, Inc. of Bowling Green, Ky., a world leader in Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW)-based chemical sensing technology used to detect chemical warfare agents. The acquisition significantly strengthens MSA's position as a premier provider of leading edge detection technology while expanding the company's product offerings for the Homeland Security, emergency responder, law enforcement, military and industrial markets. Terms were not disclosed.

Microsensor Systems, Inc., incorporated in 1985, was a pioneer in the development of SAW sensor technology. In operation, SAW sensor technology relies on acoustic waves and chemical reactions with polymer coatings to help users identify trace amounts of hazardous agents. The technology is currently used in several Microsensor products designed for detecting low levels of nerve and blister agents, including GB (sarin), GD (soman), GA (tabun) and HD (mustard), as well as a variety of widely available industrial compounds. Microsensor systems are currently being deployed in the U.S. to help safeguard select major metropolitan mass transit systems.

Devices that incorporate SAW technology are generally compact in design and suitable for handheld, transportable and stationary screening and detection systems. Microsensor System products also have broad application in a variety of industrial settings.

In April 2004, Microsensor Systems entered into an exclusive agreement with MSA to distribute the HAZMATCAD product line for the detection of chemical warfare agents. The HAZMATCAD was developed to meet the unique needs of first responders.

"This acquisition allows us to combine Microsensor's technological expertise with MSA core competencies in sensor and electronics design to create a broad array of new and industry leading detection instruments," said Kerry Bove, Vice President and General Manager for MSA's Instrument Division. "Combining our resources further enhances MSA's ability to serve customers as a single-source safety provider for first responder and other applications.

Microsensor Systems' research and development team has more than 100 combined years of chemical, sensor and instrument design experience. The company, which employs approximately 25 people, shares many common markets with MSA, including the Homeland Security, law enforcement, emergency responder, oil and gas, chemical, food and beverage, automotive and general industries.

Mr. Bove added that MSA intends to maintain Microsensor Systems' operations in Bowling Green and will integrate personnel and other assets with those at MSA's Cranberry, Pa. facility. "Our focus is on customer service and quality," he said. "This acquisition will allow us to leverage the strengths of both organizations to create an even broader line of sophisticated safety products that meet customer needs and enhance MSA's reputation for technological innovation."

Established in 1914, MSA is a global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of sophisticated safety products that protect people's health and safety. Sophisticated safety products typically integrate any combination of electronics, mechanical systems and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life-threatening situations. The company's comprehensive line of products is used by workers around the world in the fire service, homeland security, construction and other industries, as well as the military. Principal products include self-contained breathing apparatus, gas masks, gas detection instruments, head protection, respirators and thermal imaging cameras. The company also provides a broad range of consumer and contractor safety products through retail channels. These products are marketed and sold under the MSA Safety Works brand. MSA has annual sales of more than $850 million, manufacturing operations throughout the United States and Europe, and more than 30 international locations. Additional information is available on the company's Web site at http://www.msanet.com/.