The opening of the new branch coincides with the appointment of Ocean Safety as the south west agency for the commercial division of Zodiac liferafts, covering Exeter to Penzance.

Ocean Safety Plymouth is to be headed by Harry Schwartz, a safety professional of many years standing.

Schwartz will be responsible for operating the Plymouth base as a satellite office to Ocean Safety's main premises and head office at Southampton.

As well as focusing on the commercial Zodiac services, Ocean Safety Plymouth will handle the sales and back up of the company's full range of lifesaving, survival and fire fighting equipment.

"We will be able to enhance communications with existing customers in this area, as well as developing new business, " Schwartz said.

Keeping customers informed about new regulations is as important as educating buyers about being equipped with the right products for their safety, he emphasised.

The new Plymouth office is located at Lee Mill Industrial Estate on the A38 five miles east of Plymouth.