The initial agreement to acquire Hernis Scan Systems AS from its parent company Visilink plc was signed in November 2010 and which was then subject to the approval from Visilink shareholders and regulatory approvals. Hernis is a Norway-based manufacturer of closed circuit television (CCTV) systems for use in harsh and hazardous environments and in particular specialises in the manufacture of explosion-proof CCTV systems certified for use in onshore and offshore oil and gas, marine and petrochemical markets worldwide.

"This will be the fourth acquisition we have made into our explosion-proof harsh and hazardous environment platform within the last year and demonstrates our commitment to enhancing our portfolio with additional technology and capability. Hernis represents a strategic fit with Cooper Safety's existing offering of explosion-proof beacons and sounders and Cooper Crouse-Hinds' global-leading portfolio of harsh and hazardous instrumentation solutions," said Cooper Industries Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Kirk S. Hachigian. "Additionally, this strategic acquisition will support our globalisation initiative, as Hernis has a significant global presence in the explosion-proof CCTV market, including strong market positions in both Europe and Asia."

"Cooper has an exceptionally strong balance sheet and continues to maintain a focused and disciplined acquisition strategy," said Hachigian. "We remain committed to building key business and technology platforms that provide substantial growth in more specification-driven end markets."