A thick cloud of dust fills the air as a construction worker cuts through a concrete slab, struggling to see or breathe. For years, workers like him have faced serious health risks, inhaling deadly silica dust that can cause silicosis, a life-threatening lung disease.
But with the Guarda Edge Powercutter, the dust disappears instantly. Using Tri-Vac Technology™, it removes harmful particles before they spread into the air. This makes job sites safer while reducing cleanup time and costs.
Silica dust exposure is one of the biggest health hazards in the construction industry. Determined to find a solution, Steve Terpstra created the Guarda Edge Powercutter, a revolutionary saw that eliminates silica dust, fumes, and slurry at the source.
Later joined by Craig Penty, he built Guarda Systems to bring this life-saving technology to the world.
With workplace safety regulations tightening and millions of workers at risk, Guarda Systems caught the attention of Shark Tank investors, hoping to scale their life-saving innovation. But did they secure the deal they needed? Let’s dive in!
Guarda Systems Journey Before Shark Tank
In 2005, Steve Terpstra, a construction worker from Perth, Australia, saw firsthand the dangers of masonry cutting. He and his team were constantly exposed to hazardous dust and fumes.
“Ongoing exposure to the hazards of silica dust and also to carbon monoxide had left him fearing for his health and that of his employees,” the company explains. But when he looked for a solution, he found nothing effective.
Determined to fix the problem, Steve spent years developing the Guarda Edge Powercutter. This first-of-its-kind saw combines water and vacuum technology to capture dust, slurry, and fumes before they spread into the air.
Guarda describes it as “a local Perth inventor that has solved a global workplace problem.”
His innovation didn’t go unnoticed. Guarda Systems won the 2019 Most Innovative Product Award at the World of Concrete Trade Show in Las Vegas.
Craig Penty, now Managing Director, emphasized their mission.
“Its main purpose is to reduce the silica dust & carbon monoxide hazards when cutting masonry and save lives.”
Craig Penty
Despite the recognition, the company needed funding and partnerships to scale. Before appearing on Shark Tank, they had already achieved:
- $250,000 in total sales over four years
- $493,000 in angel funding
- $926,000 through equity crowdfunding
- A potential $90 million licensing deal with major power tool companies
They were also in talks with a major UK tool-hire company, signaling strong global interest.
“We have made great inroads into securing some great distribution partners and have strong global interest, including from one very large tool-hire company in the UK,” Penty shared.
With a $1.5 billion market for concrete-cutting saws, Guarda knew they had a massive opportunity. But they needed investors to help them scale manufacturing and expand internationally.
Shark Tank Pitch Recap
Steve and Craig entered the Shark Tank asking for $250,000 in exchange for 3% equity, valuing their company at $8.3 million.
To prove their innovation, Steve cut through a brick wall live on set. Unlike traditional saws, which release thick dust clouds, “Compared to footage of other saws that use water to suppress the dust, there’s no dust on set.”
The Sharks were impressed but hesitant, especially about the company’s complex ownership structure.
Maxine liked the concept but had concerns:
“I think it’s great. I think it’s got potential. But a very wise manager of mine told me once, everything before the ‘but’ is bullshit, so here it comes. But there’s two things that scare me…”
Her biggest issue? Guarda had 45 other owners, a red flag for investors. She was out.
Nick saw massive potential, saying he loved “boring businesses that solve problems” because those are the ones that “make truckloads of money.” However, he wanted a larger stake than Steve and Craig were willing to give. He dropped out.
Then came Rob with a different approach. Instead of a straight investment, he made a high-stakes offer:
- He would provide the full $250,000
- BUT only if they secured a licensing deal with one of the two major power tool companies they were negotiating with
With no downside, Steve and Craig accepted the deal.
Now, the real challenge lay ahead. Could they close the $90 million licensing deal and secure Rob’s investment?
Guarda Systems Shark Tank Update
Appearing on Shark Tank gave Guarda Systems credibility. It also increased industry interest in their technology. They continued promoting their dust suppression system through live demonstrations and industry events.
One of the biggest moments came on August 16, 2023. Guarda showcased their product at the Melbourne offices of concrete construction supplier Allcon Group.
The event drew industry experts and regulatory officials. Guarda’s technology left a lasting impression.
Attendees noted its “ability to almost completely suppress airborne respirable silica dust, enhancing the safety of the work environment.”
Key developments post-Shark Tank:
- Expanded distribution & partnerships, including UK tool-hire companies.
- Increased awareness of silicosis regulations, driving demand for safer tools.
- Acquired/Merged on September 27, 2019, securing future growth.
While details about the licensing deal remain undisclosed, Guarda’s acquisition suggests they secured a major partner to help scale their business globally.
CEO Craig Penty reflected on their progress:
“We are working towards delivering high-quality and Australian-assembled Guarda products into the market in sufficient quantities to make a tangible impact in the Australian market, provide a springboard for global success, and bring about a world in which every worker who cuts concrete, stone, or brick can do so without fear of dying from lung disease.”
Future Plans
With workplace safety regulations tightening worldwide, Guarda is focusing on:
- Expanding manufacturing to meet rising demand
- Developing advanced models of the Edge Powercutter
- Building international partnerships in Europe, North America, and Asia
- Exploring further licensing opportunities with power tool giants
As governments enforce stricter silica dust regulations, Guarda’s Tri-Vac Technology™ could become the industry standard for dust control.
Penty remains confident:
“We are confident that our products will revolutionize the construction and related industries and set new standards for safety and protection.”
Final Thoughts
Guarda Systems started with one man’s determination to protect workers from silicosis and carbon monoxide poisoning. Years of innovation led to a game-changing product, industry recognition, and a high-stakes Shark Tank deal.
Their journey wasn’t easy. But their acquisition and expanding market presence prove they are making a real impact.
With global safety laws evolving and demand for dust suppression growing, Guarda Systems is well-positioned for the future.
Would you invest in Guarda Systems? Let us know in the comments!
