Edinburgh-based Reactec — a spin-out from University of Edinburgh in 2001 specialising in wrist-watch style monitoring of work-place vibration — has been sold to Ideagen in a multi-million pound deal.
Ideagen, a global leader in compliance and risk management software, has said it has strengthened its support for worker health and safety with the acquisition, which combines wearable technology with data analytics.
Reactec’s workplace wearables enable businesses to take a more proactive approach to the management of workplace hazards such as exposure to vibration, dust, noise and proximity to hazards.
Jacqui McLaughlin, CEO of Reactec, who was recently featured in The Business’ Enterprising Women feature: said: “Our core mission has always been to protect workers and provide actionable insights that foster healthier and safer work environments.
“Becoming part of Ideagen allows us to extend our reach and provide even greater value to organizations that are forward thinking in their approach to enhancing the health and wellbeing of their workers.”
She said the value of Reactec’s technology will be introduced to Ideagen’s customer base.
Archangel Investors, an Scottish angel investment syndicate, was an early investor in Reactec, supporting the company’s evolution. Its members will enjoy a pay-out after years of patient investment.
David Ovens, joint managing director of Archangels, said: “Over several years, Archangels has supported Reactec’s transformation from a narrow HAVs application to a broad workplace safety platform, delivering meaningful health outcomes for workers.
“We’re particularly pleased to see recent strong growth in both domestic and international markets and we look forward to seeing the business flourish.”
After the 2005 Control of Vibration at Work Regulations, the company developed technologies to protect employees from vibration exposure. In July 2022, Reactec launched the R-Link smart watch, protecting wearers from risks like Hand Arm Vibration, harmful particulates, and proximity to moving vehicles or machinery. Combined with Reactec Analytics, it provides employers with insights into managing workplace risks.
The acquisition underscores Ideagen’s commitment to driving innovation and delivering comprehensive solutions that support safer healthier compliant workplaces. The company serves over 16,000 companies, including some of the world’s biggest names in mining and construction, 250 global aviation organisations, nine of the top global aerospace and defence corporations, 15 of the top 20 global pharmaceutical companies, and over 900 hospitals.
Ben Dorks, CEO of Ideagen, said: “This is a significant milestone for Ideagen as we continue to invest in technologies that address real-world challenges faced by our customers.
“Reactec’s wearable technology and data analytics are a perfect complement to our portfolio, putting cutting-edge tools directly into the hands of those who need it most. Together, we are setting new standards for workplace safety and risk mitigation.”
The Reactec deal is Ideagen’s sixth acquisition in 2025, following on the WorkSafe Guardian last week.
