Maple Ridge, BC — April 23, 2026 — A welding product innovation designed and sold by the local business TorchRite Solutions has been adopted by the City of Maple Ridge's engineering operations team to support safer and more efficient operations across both daily work and capital projects.
A winner of the 2025 Maple Ridge Innovation Challenge, TorchRite's Safe-T Torch™ system is designed to give torch operators greater control over the pressurized gases used in metal cutting and welding applications. The automated "quick stop" handle and shut-off mechanism allow welders to instantly stop the flow of gas when torch work is paused or completed, significantly increasing the safety of workers.
Following testing and evaluation, the City has purchased the system to further strengthen its employee health and safety practices.
"Frontline staff drive the maintenance and infrastructure advancement in our community, and their safety is our top priority," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "It's rewarding to see a Maple Ridge business move from Innovation Challenge winner to City supplier with a product that supports safe and effective operations."
City staff have completed implementation and training and are now using the system in equipment fabrication, repair, and maintenance—key functions that help keep the city running safely and reliably.
"Working with the City of Maple Ridge has been a great experience," said Armen Jeknavorian, President of TorchRite Solutions. "When municipal governments are open to locally developed innovations, it gives companies like ours the opportunity to show how homegrown solutions multiply the benefits for all parties. The willingness to test and adopt our system shows the value of collaboration between the City and local business."
Businesses can learn more about the Safe-T Torch™ system at TorchRiteSolutions.com
Fostering Business Innovation
The City's decision to test and purchase TorchRite's system demonstrates the value of connecting local business innovation with public sector needs. It also highlights the role the Maple Ridge Innovation Challenge plays in supporting emerging business solutions to gain visibility and momentum.
TorchRite Solutions was the first-place winner in the Business-to-Business category of the 2025 Maple Ridge Innovation Challenge, a City-led, sponsor-supported initiative that recognizes local businesses that lead the way with innovative products, services, and processes that strengthen the community, economy, and environment.
"The Innovation Challenge spotlights Maple Ridge businesses that are solving real-world problems," said Karen Hansen, Business Outreach Specialist and Coordinator of the Innovation Challenge with the City of Maple Ridge. "TorchRite Solutions, along with the other winners and finalists, is an example of how local companies are thinking outside the box with practical innovations that create value for customers and synergies across the business community."
With cash and in-kind prizes provided by sponsors including Pitt Meadows Plumbing, Ridge Meadows College, and many others, the Innovation Challenge is a valuable connection for Maple Ridge innovators and supporters.
Innovation comes in many forms and businesses of all sizes are encouraged to apply for the 2026 Innovation Challenge. Details on this will be announced soon at MapleRidge.ca/Innovation.
- 30 -
Media contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca