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Bedford Reinforced Plastics (Bedford, Pa., U.S.) has developed a new proprietary coating to protect its fiberglass-reinforced polymer (GFRP) products from the potentially negative effects of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.

Known as ReadyShield, the UV-resistant protective coating will be applied to all safety yellow PROForms structural shapes. The coating will also be used for ReadySeries pre-engineered structures, including ReadyPlatform, ReadyRail, ReadyLadder and ReadyStair.

Bedford’s proprietary, UV-resistant coating protects against the negative effects of UV degradation and the potential for fiber bloom. The formulated compound withstands harsh weather exposure, extreme heat and humidity without changes to surface appearance or structural integrity. According to the company, ReadyShield strengthens the durability and performance of GFRP structures while also increasing overall safety in facilities where the structures are used.

“We are confident EHS and plant managers will appreciate the effects of this breakthrough in their facilities,” Aldred D’Souza, P.E., engineering director for Bedford, notes.“Protecting against fiber bloom is one of the most important features of the ReadyShield coating. This will protect against unnecessary obstacles that facility workers currently deal with on a daily basis.”