It’s not easy to always see the positives in situations. Take the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance. With more than a million infections worldwide and a death toll running into hundreds of thousands, it seems the entire world is united in shared unease and uncertainty. However, even in the face of such global concern and anxiety, we can see positivity shine through: countries have set aside their differences and pooled resources to help each other; businesses have united to help combat the spread of the virus; loved ones have more time to bond during lockdown and there is a greater sense of community in neighbourhoods.
REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL too is doing its bit to bolster government’s COVID-19 efforts by donating face shields and splash protection masks that have been made using 3D printed parts at our iLeadLABs across the country.
The first batch was ready last week and the team handed over 90 face shield kits to be used by healthcare workers at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. We’re in the process of producing more to donate to other hospitals and public healthcare professionals also facing shortages.
Here’s how these prototype PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) is helping make a difference in SA’s battle against COVID-19:
Fulfills an essential need
There is simply not enough masks and protective equipment for everyone, not just in South Africa but worldwide too. Most PPE is produced in China and the country is struggling to meet export demands.
Curbs infection rates
Doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers wear the face shields and splash protection masks to keep them safe from virus-containing droplets that are released by patients who sneeze and cough. The equipment is critical to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Helps save lives
While all of us are being responsible by practising frequent handwashing, social distancing and #StayingHome to help #FlattenTheCurve, our healthcare professionals are the only people directly working on the frontline to save lives. We need to do all we can to protect them so they, in turn, can continue to protect us. The prototype masks and facial shields play an important role in keeping them safe.
Boosts morale and confidence
The COVID-19 outbreak in SA has launched healthcare professionals in a situation many have never faced before. While the situation may feel overwhelming, community-backed efforts such as REGENT BUSINESS SCHOOL working 24/7 to supply essential life-saving gear, boosts morale and confidence. It’s our way of showing our invaluable healthcare workers that they are not alone, and that we are all in this fight together.
For more info on our prototype protective face shields and splash protection masks, check out our earlier article here.
For enquiries, email [email protected]