Viking expands West Coast facilities and services

Viking Life-Saving Equipment, a leader in maritime safety, announced its Seattle, Washington Service Station is moving to a larger, 6,000 sq. ft. facility on the Duwamish Waterway.  The new location will open March 1st and ensure better access to the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle.  Recently appointed, John Sanford will head the company’s Seattle branch office and lead the West Coast sales division.  Viking managing director of the Americas Al Osle made the announcement.  

The new station is equipped to service Viking’s entire line of products, including the Marine Evacuation Systems currently installed on many major cruise ships.  John Sanford comes to Viking with 20 years of marine maintenance and service management experience.  He has held positions with various cruise, commercial and military marine service organizations.  

“The new facility is part of Viking’s focused commitment to our customers and we are delighted to have John join our team,” said Osle.  “His experience is a perfect fit for our expansion plans on the West Coast.”
Viking currently offers annual and five yearly lifeboat inspection services at many of its worldwide service stations.  This year, the company will be implementing this service at all the major North American ports.  

“Our goal is to provide comprehensive service for all SOLAS-regulated equipment,” said Osle.  “The current economic climate demands that our customers get the greatest value for their dollar.  By adding annual lifeboat inspections to our menu of services, it simplifies the process for superintendents and port captains.  They can order all the regulated SOLAS equipment inspections with a single purchase order and synchronize these important inspection cycles.”

            For almost 50 years, Viking has produced superior chute- and slide-based marine and offshore evacuation and embarkment systems, liferafts, lifejackets, immersion suits, fire suits and other life-saving equipment.

            Contact Viking Life-Saving Equipment, 1400 NW 159th St., #101, Miami, FL  33169.  305-614-5800;  Fax: 305-614-5810.  usasales@viking-life.com;  www.viking-life.com.

            For specific information about Viking Life-Saving Equipment (Seattle), contact 1521 S. 92nd Place, Suite A, Seattle, WA  98108.  206-783-3900;  Fax: 206-783-3993.  jsan@viking-life.com.

By Professional Mariner Staff