A path to safer water with KOR and pathogen control

A focus on innovation and safety in the water sector through pathogen control technology has led to products that enhance efficiency.

In 2011, KOR Equipment Solutions was started by the founder Steve Pewtress, as he recognised a continuous challenge faced by the water industry in Australia and New Zealand. For many years, there was a notable disparity between market demands and offerings.

Tim McGregor, Head of Product and Commercial, has been part of the KOR team since inception.

“The market required better equipment, services, and support,” said McGregor. “This gap had persisted for years, and we decided to couple the best equipment in the world with unmatched service and support.”

KOR was established to address unmet needs and elevate standards across the industrial service sector. From the outset, the KOR team aimed to create pressure on other manufacturers and distributors to improve their practices. Now, more than a decade later, McGregor is confident that their efforts have had a real impact, transforming the expectations and capabilities within the water sector.

Innovating for productivity and safety

At the heart of KOR’s philosophy lies a commitment to efficiency and safety. The company has introduced products designed to help organisations achieve more while using fewer resources – whether that be water, time or funding. McGregor emphasised that this approach is particularly critical in a sector often constrained by tight budgets and high demands for productivity.

“Our goal is to help the water industry do more with less,” he said.

A prime illustration of this commitment is the Vanguard Pathogen Defence System. This groundbreaking technology, developed in the United States, marks a substantial leap forward in pathogen management. McGregor said the system’s operation effectively sanitises and eradicates pathogens, viruses and bacteria from equipment and their environments. Before this system was introduced, effective methods for dealing with these unseen yet hazardous threats were lacking. The Vanguard system has far-reaching implications for both residential and commercial spaces, where sewer and drain cleaning frequently occurs. In these environments, pathogens often go unnoticed but pose serious risks to operators and the public.

“In residential areas, operators may need to drag sewer hoses through private properties,” McGregor said, citing a typical example. “Without a way to clean the equipment, pathogens could spread to places where children play or pets roam.”

The Vanguard system tackles this issue by ensuring contaminants remain within the sewer system, a distinctive feature that McGregor said is unprecedented. This technology has already made waves in the United States, earning the trust of contractors, municipalities and water authorities. Its demonstrated effectiveness naturally led to its inclusion in KOR’s portfolio. McGregor emphasised how this system aligns with the company’s vision of delivering top-notch solutions that improve safety and productivity.

Engaging with the industry

KOR’s success stems from its innovative technology and strong involvement in the water industry. McGregor highlighted events like Ausjet as essential avenues for the company to engage with stakeholders.

“These events allow us to showcase our solutions, but more importantly, they facilitate direct conversations with the people who use our products,” he said.

McGregor said these interactions are vital to understanding the industry’s distinct challenges. The water sector relies heavily on relationships, and establishing trust with clients goes beyond simply providing excellent products. To make its solutions accessible to a broader audience, KOR engages in events covering the water, waste and industrial cleaning sectors.

Beyond networking, these events provide a platform for physical demonstrations, which McGregor believes are crucial in building confidence.

“Sometimes, seeing and interacting with the products in person helps stakeholders truly understand their value,” he added. “This hands-on approach has been a cornerstone of KOR’s strategy, fostering stronger connections with industry professionals and decision-makers.”

Pioneering sustainability

Alongside safety and productivity, sustainability has emerged as a central focus for KOR. The company acknowledges the increasing significance of minimising environmental impact and has adapted its operations to align with the industry’s movement toward net zero. McGregor pointed out the intricacies of this initiative, emphasising that reaching net zero demands a thorough comprehension of the industry’s existing environmental footprint.

KOR has started addressing these challenges by exploring innovative ways to reduce waste and emissions. For example, the company is investigating the use of recycled materials in manufacturing and developing products that last longer, thereby reducing the need for frequent replacements. McGregor said that small changes, such as using materials that eliminate the need for priming and painting, can significantly lower a product’s carbon footprint. However, he was quick to stress that there are no quick fixes regarding sustainability.

“This is a long-term project,” he said. “It’s about creating solutions that balance functionality with environmental responsibility. I believe that by prioritising sustainability, KOR can help lead the water industry toward a future where efficiency and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.”

The road ahead

Looking ahead, KOR Equipment Solutions continues to prioritise innovation. McGregor highlighted the necessity of continually improving the company’s offerings and client relationships.

“Our goal is to deliver top-tier, durable equipment that boosts productivity while minimising environmental impact,” he said.

For McGregor, the company’s mission is about more than financial success; it’s about making a lasting impact on the industry. He believes that trust is earned through consistently delivering innovative solutions that address real-world problems. By focusing on safety, sustainability, and efficiency, KOR aims to help the water industry navigate today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s demands.

The years ahead will bring new technologies and opportunities, and KOR is poised to remain at the forefront of these developments.

“We’re in an exciting time, and we look forward to continuing to make a difference with more products and solutions. In a sector as vital as water, that commitment to innovation and progress resonates far beyond the company itself.”

For more information, visit kor.com.au