Harstra
We are a dutch production company
66% of firefighter deaths are the
result of preventable cancer
In our book,
that’s 100% too much
In 2022, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization (WHO), officially classified “occupational exposure as a firefighter as carcinogenic to humans.” ¹
Simply put, carcinogenic means “having the potential to cause cancer.”
On the job, firefighters are exposed to a range of deadly carcinogens. But the risk doesn’t end when the flames are extinguished.
During a fire, their protective gear absorbs harmful contaminants—turning essential life-saving equipment into a potential health hazard.
Starting each shift with clean, decontaminated gear and ensuring that contaminated PPE is properly cleaned and contained afterward is as critical as wearing the gear itself.
And that’s exactly what Harstra delivers.
Since 2004, we’ve dedicated ourselves to creating cleaning and drying machines that protect firefighters by keeping their gear safe. But Harstra did not originate in 2004. In fact, we have to go back more than 60 years before that.
Harstra's Timeline
The birth of Harstra
85 years ago, Mr. Harderwijk and Mr. Van Straaten founded Harstra.
1940New leadership
In 1960, Mr. van der Ham Sr. joins Harstra.
In the years prior, he leads his own company (Paphyla), making laboratory instruments.
From the very beginning, precision and craftsmanship are deeply embedded within the company.
Some years later, Mr. van der Ham becomes the sole owner of Harstra.
1960From father to son
Father van der Ham passes the baton to his son Roland.
1983New beginnings
A strategic move to Zeewolde means more space and opportunities for growth. During this period, the focus shifts from laboratory equipment to safety technology.
1992Pivot into the Safety branche
Harstra dives deeper into the world of safety technology and introduces the Wash 4 and Wash 9 for cleaning personal protective equipment (PPE) such as breathing air masks (Wash 9) and SCBAs with cilinder (Wash 4).
Later that year, Harstra introduces the F12, a drying cabinet for SCBAs.
These solutions prove to be the decisive step toward international growth and recognition.
2004Development of the Wash 6 with Dräger
Harstra continues to develop and introduces the Wash 6 and the Wash 6 HP.
Together with Dräger, the Wash 6 is being further developed to allow Dräger SCBAs to be cleaned under high pressure without a cylinder. In this machine the SCBAs remain connected to a high pressure system during the washing process.
2016Acquisition by Groku
After a period of introduction and onboarding, Roland and Jolanda pass the baton to Groku, which fully acquires the company.
Groku specializes in manufacturing custom stainless steel solutions. With its own factory and professional business operations, Groku brings modernization, innovation, and an expansion of production capacity.
Additionally, Groku takes full responsibility for all matters related to stainless steel processing/production, procurement, administration, and IT, allowing Harstra to fully focus on its core business.
2023M45 redesign and Wash 9 HP development
One of the first developments after the acquisition is the redesign of the M45 drying cabinet from powder-coated steel to 100% stainless steel.
In addition, Harstra is developing the Wash 9 HP. This is a smaller wash machine with high pressure connection for cleaning 1 Dräger SCBA.
2024Today and beyond
Harstra's ambition is to continue innovating and to provide as many fire departments as possible with clean PPE.
Our job is not done until every firefighter can do their job safely and healthily.
2025Global
USERS
multiple firedepartments are using our equipment
PRODUCTS
Range
a perfect solution is available for your organisation
Automatic programs
DEGREES
automated washing and drying programs
AISI
Stainless steel
our products are mainly fabricated of AISI 304 Stainless steel
The Faces Behind Harstra
Meet Rico, Mark, Bart, Lukas, Freerk & Eugen – the faces behind Harstra.
Now that Groku handles administration, IT, supply chain, and stainless steel processing and production, Harstra can focus more than ever on its core task: creating and delivering the very best washing and drying solutions for the safety industry.

Freerk (Quality), Mark (Sales), and Lukas (R&D) bring extensive experience from Groku. Freerk and Lukas ensure that we keep innovating and that every machine leaving the workshop is of top quality.
Mark and Bart (Operations & Technical Support) focus on supporting our customers. Bart, who joined in 2024, also ensures that the entire process runs like clockwork.
Rico, our true veteran, has been with Harstra since 2013 and is the absolute expert in the workshop. Since 2025, Eugen has also joined the workshop to further boost efficiency and productivity.
In the background, Groku’s own factory plays a crucial role in our batch production. As a result, since 2024 we have been able to consistently deliver from stock, drastically shortening our lead times.
With this team behind Harstra, you can be assured of reliable, efficient, and innovative PPE washing and drying solutions!
The job isn’t done until every firefighter can suit up with confidence, knowing their gear won’t put them at risk. We’re just one piece of the puzzle, doing our part to make that future a reality. Because protecting those who protect us is a team effort—and we’re proud to play our role.