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A West Midlands testing specialist has marked its fifth year in business by setting an ambitious £1 million sales target, as interest in its digital pull-testing tools increases across the scaffolding and access sector.
Staht, based in Lye near Dudley, manufactures equipment for load testing anchor fixings, safety eye bolts, and lifting points — all commonly used in scaffolding and fall protection systems. The firm expects sales growth to accelerate in 2026, driven by rising safety standards and increased demand for digital reporting on construction sites.
The company’s tools — particularly its flagship T60, which tests loads up to six tonnes — are now used in more than 15 countries, including Australia, the US, and Europe.
Founder Rob Hirst, who previously worked for 3M, started the business during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.
“We started in my kitchen with a basic idea for a better pull tester,” he told Scaffmag. “Five years on, we’re exporting globally, and our digital systems are being adopted across multiple sectors — including scaffolding.”
Staht’s testing kits are designed to capture and log key inspection data, including GPS location, photos, and real-time results. All data is stored via the firm’s Staht® Connect mobile app, which is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
The technology aims to streamline compliance checks, particularly where detailed inspection records are required for site safety documentation or third-party verification.
To meet increased demand, the company has recently expanded its operations at Hayes Lane Trading Estate in Lye, adding new warehouse and workshop space along with a training facility for clients.
Staht has also received support from Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), a government-funded service aimed at helping small businesses scale up. Through BGWM, the firm secured capital funding for a 3D printer, allowing it to bring product prototyping in-house.
BGWM adviser Steve Dunn said Staht was an example of a small manufacturer responding to the construction sector’s evolving needs.
“Rob and the team are designing and building equipment in the Black Country that’s being used around the world. It’s a good case of innovation meeting market demand — especially in areas like scaffolding where inspection regimes are tightening.”
Staht currently employs six people and is continuing to develop new tools aimed at the access and safety market. Its most recent product, the T25, offers Bluetooth connectivity and a full-colour screen in a more compact format.
