Hallweld Bennett: building on 119 years of innovation for a stronger future
From supplying mines in the NSW outback at the turn of the last century to becoming a South Australian industrial powerhouse, Hallweld Bennett has built a reputation of innovation. Now, as a member of the RISSafety family, we share how clients will benefit from this partnership.
Hallweld Bennett: a history of innovation
Hallweld Bennett opened its doors in 1905 supplying goods to mines in Broken Hill. At the time, the South Australian company was known as Hallweld Engineers and was renowned for its innovation.
It was during World War II that the company found a niche market in a booming area: manufacturing and supplying walkway gratings for industrial and commercial applications, as well as for war ships.
At the time, the gratings were made by hand, a labour-intensive process that become quicker and easier when the company moved into designing and manufacturing its own machinery for producing reinforcing mesh and chain wire mesh.
For a long time, the company was owned and run by one family. In 1987, the company branched into designing access systems and access equipment after the merger of two businesses.
Seeking opportunities for growth has always been part of the company’s DNA.
From apprentice to owner: Joe Tindall’s vision
Joe Tindall’s journey with Hallweld Bennett began in 1977 when he started his apprenticeship there. Over the years he worked his way up in roles including boiler maker and contracts manager.
It was this in-depth knowledge of different divisions of the business that allowed Joe to see opportunities for expansion and growth. Noticing the high demand in construction-related fields in South Australia and beyond, Joe researched the field of height safety.
“Back in the late 90s, I saw an opportunity to diversify into the height safety industry,” says Joe.
Establishing this new vertical created opportunities for the business to expand its expertise and grow the team. In 2011, Joe was appointed to the role of General Manager. He would later buy Hallweld Bennett, the company he had dedicated his entire career to.
Clients come first
When Joe purchased the height safety section of Hallweld Bennett he wanted to retain the close-knit family feeling the company was known for. In fact, one of the original family members worked for Joe a couple of years later. Today, Joe maintains the family-friendly, easy-going organisation he has loved for decades.
Joe’s biggest priority is supporting his clients and ensuring their needs are met.
“It hasn’t always been about trying to make a buck. We want to support our clients and help them understand what they need and come up with solutions for them.”
As a solutions-driven company, Hallweld Bennett focuses on delivering high customer satisfaction.
Partnership and growth: Hallweld Bennett joins the RISSafety family
Hallweld Bennett’s client base grew steadily over the years, thanks largely to referrals. Joe prides himself on the good relationships fostered and the company’s diverse client base.
It was in part this glowing reputation that led to RISSafety acquiring the organisation.
“At RISSafety, we’re always looking for opportunities to improve our offerings and talent pool,” says Mark Casey, CEO of RISSafety.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do and that doesn’t just mean safety at heights – it also means ensuring a safe, collaborative and open workplace, where everyone is valued.
“We believe this acquisition will improve height safety offerings for our clients.”
Joe agrees, and feels confident about the future. After 47 years at Hallweld Bennett, he’s looking forward to RISSafety continuing the company he has dedicated his career to.
Discover how RISSafety can help your business with height safety solutions including site inspections and system installation.
