A trickle. Sale of 16 RAMP systems to the US DOD for training.
America's First Responders Will Receive System Training Through Federal Program
TSX Venture Exchange: RBM
VANCOUVER, May 14 /CNW/ - Response Biomedical Corp. (RBM: TSX Venture Exchange), announces a program sponsored by the US Department of Homeland Security has purchased 16 of the Company's RAMP(R) Systems for the purpose of training first responders throughout the US.
"The US Department of Homeland Security is regarded worldwide as a discerning early adopter of innovative and effective technology solutions," says Mr. Bill Radvak, President and CEO. "With a mandate to provide systems training to more than 2,000,000 first responders across the country, supplying our RAMP System for government supported professional instruction is strategically significant with important sales and revenue implications for our Company."
RAMP Systems were purchased by the Domestic Preparedness Equipment Technical Assistance Program (DPETAP) at a cost of US$148,000. DPETAP assists first responders to better select, operate and maintain their radiological, chemical and biological detection and response equipment by providing product information and equipment training programs. DPETAP is sponsored by the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office for Domestic Preparedness, and the Department of Defense, US Army's Pine Bluff Arsenal. Pine Bluff Arsenal is responsible for the day-to-day management of the DPETAP through General Physics Corporation.
RAMP Systems have been sold in Canada, the US, Japan, Italy, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates. Customers include UNMOVIC, the US Air Force and Health Canada. In addition to nine distribution partners in the US, the Company has marketing partners in Israel, Germany, Italy, Ireland, New Zealand, Korea, Japan and the United Arab Emirates. RAMP Systems are also being used in major US markets including New York, Chicago, Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Houston.
Response Biomedical develops, manufactures and markets rapid on-site RAMP(R) tests for clinical and biodefense applications providing reliable information in minutes, when and where it is needed. The RAMP System consists of a portable fluorescent Reader and single-use, disposable Test Cartridges. In biodefense, RAMP tests are commercially available for the rapid on-site detection of anthrax, ricin and botulinum toxin. RAMP tests for smallpox and tularemia are in late-stage development. The Company is also exploring development opportunities in infectious diseases including rapid tests for SARS and West Nile Virus. |
