Safety technology - Is it patentable?

Intellectual property (IP) can be found in the safety industry. New materials, new parts, new repair techniques, new methods for fire protection, new methods for detection, new communication devices and new monitoring software, have all emerged in the past 5 years. Building an IP portfolio is economically important as (1) an asset (2) a marketing tool and (3) as a defense to protect market share. Patents, trademarks, trade secrets and copyrights can protect new ideas, specifications, methods of manufacture or repair and products in the safety industry. Information on identifying what is protectable and building an IP portfolio for safety business owners is presented.