Growing through deals

3M has beefed up its safety and security division through acquisitions in recent years, including two announced this week.

2006

• Aerion Technologies Inc., a Denver provider of environmental monitoring products including gas detection systems.

• Security Printing and Systems Ltd., a British producer of finished, personalized passports and secure cards.

• The safety business of POMP Medical and Occupational Health Products, a Brazilian provider of products such as earplugs and eyewear.

2007

• Rochford Thompson Equipment Ltd., a British manufacturer of optical character recognition passport readers used by airlines and immigration authorities.

2008

• Aearo Technologies Inc., an Indianapolis eye, hearing and fall protection company, for $1.2 billion.

• Quest Technologies Inc., an Oconomowoc , Wis., manufacturer of environmental monitoring equipment, including noise, heat-stress and vibration monitors.

2010

• Dailys Ltd., a British supplier of disposable protective clothing.

• *Attenti Holdings SA, an Israeli producer of electronic tracking devices, for $230 million.