PPE magazine for the Irish Independent October 2020

INSIDE: » THE PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT (PPE) YOU NEED FOR ALL INDUSTRIES » INTERVIEWS WITH SOME OF THE TOP IRISH COMPANIES INNOVATING PPE » HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR YOUR BUSINESS

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Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

Keeping Ireland safe

IN THE MIDST OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, IRISH BUSINESSES ARE COMING TOGETHER TO PROVIDE THE BEST PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) FOR YOUR HOME AND WORK

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you may need to perform a health and safety ccording to a survey examining the workplace risk assessment for COVID-19 on future of Irish workplaces by BNP Pariour website at peninsulagrouplimited.com. bas Real Estate Ireland, 71pc of workers “After this inspection, part of your connow worry about the health implicatrol measures may require PPE at work for tions of shared working environments. coronavirus. This can help to keep your staff, To combat this and ensure the safety of workcustomers, and visitors safe from infection.” places, back in May, the Government released It completely depends on the type of industhe Return to Work Safely Protocol (available try you are in. But some of the most common on dbei.gov.ie.) types of PPE include: The work procedures laid out in the protocol ● Facemasks: To prevent infecting others. include information on respiratory hygiene, ● Disposable gloves: To prevent hands from physical distancing, and the use of Personal becoming covered with germs.

Protection Equipment (PPE) and work equip● Isolation gowns: Primarily used in healthment where relevant. care—it helps prevent germs from lingering Darren Arkins, Senior Inspector, Chemion people’s normal clothing. cals and Prevention Division, the Health and ● Hand sanitiser: According to the CDC, Safety Authority (HSA) says, "Ensure any PPE hand sanitiser must have 60-95pc alcohol in you buy is ‘CE’ marked and complies with the order to be effective against viruses. requirements of the European Union Tony McMullan, Director of maxx(Personal Protective Equipment) RegCare, says, “Covid-19 has brought ulations 2018. This requires PPE to the necessity of the importance of have the appropriate CE mark. The sanitisation and prevention of the CE marking signifies that the PPE spread of disease front-of-mind like satisfies certain essential health never before. In the modern society and safety requirements." we live in, we are more educated Using PPE is now as big a part of and travel more than our predecesour future as washing our hands!

PPE is any appliance or device that an Stephanie sors. This increased exposure puts us at greater risk as we travel for work, for employee can wear, or hold, for protecByrne education and for leisure. tion from health and safety risks.

“We believe that habits formed during Stephanie Byrne-Roche, Health & Safety Covid-19 will continue for a long time as we Operations Manager at Peninsula Ireland, become accustomed to taking steps to protect who provide professional services to growing ourselves and family from risk of infection. businesses in Ireland, says, “Covid-19 has truly Habits like hand sanitisation, social distanctouched all aspects of life with PPE needing ing, wearing of masks in places of public to be present. The virus is still amongst us. So,

transport and the simple handshake may become a thing of the past. The new world post-Covid 19 will carry forward many of the skills learned during 2020.”

This supplement has everything you need to know about the best types of PPE available in Ireland, so your business can prepare for the new normal.

Protecting surfaces up to four months SteriStik is an anti-viral and antimicrobial surface cover, designed to stick to any high touch surface within your workplace. Its function is to proactively kill viruses and bacteria, to prevent the spread of germs between customers and staff coming into contact with the same surfaces throughout the day.

The main benefit of the antimicrobial film covers is to offer continuous and permanent protection to kill bacteria, which can cause contamination, odours and degradation.

SteriStik has sterile silver ion additives that are added to the antibacterial covers which eradicate the bacteria. Steristik provides protection for up to four months through its innovative properties. Contact maxxCare to

Antimicrobial Surface Protection find out more on how SteriStik can help your organisation protect its surfaces.

Visit maxxcareshop.com or call (01) 963 0704

Why B. Braun answered Ireland’s call WITH OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE PROVIDING SERVICES TO THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY, B. BRAUN MEDICAL HAS TURNED THEIR ATTENTION TO COVID-19

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parent company. When this dialysis care on behalf of the HSE to patients . Braun Medical is no stranger to healthinvestment was approved, the with advanced or end-stage kidney disease. care. With a range of 5,000 different facilities could start creating They have built up trust within healthcare products, it is one of the world’s leading the masks. through these facilities over the years. providers and manufacturers of “So many of our co-workers So when Covid-19 hit Ireland, they healthcare solutions. are frontline healthcare workers were one of the suppliers who “We are a key system partner and nurses,” says Liam. “So we stepped up. to the Health Service Executive have empathy with the chal“Because of our position as a top (HSE),” says Pat McLoughlin, Site lenges and the anxiety for them, as supplier to the HSE, in February Director for the B. Braun’s Sligo they’re dealing with increased risk.”

2020, our general manager was and Longford locations. “We aim to Liam says the company started invited to a HSE supplier engagealways improve the health of people Pat working swiftly and decisively to ment forum on how to support the in Ireland and we continue to do that McLoughlin healthcare system.” provide critical care equipment and throughout Covid-19.” pharmaceuticals to Irish hospiPat says this was a time when the B. Braun Medical has two manufactals during this time.

Covid-19 pandemic had just started turing facilities in Ireland, one in Sligo and “We already had excellent spreading in Italy and other Euroone in Longford. In Sligo, they primarily quality and a regulatory pean countries, including Ireland. make wound care products, including gels, and engineering compe“There was a real fear that the creams and bandages. In Longford, they tence within healthcare whole health service would come produce intravenous nutrition products for manufacturing,” says Liam. “So we under severe pressure as the Irish hospitals and patients at home. They also were able to secure the materials pandemic raged. The HSE had have renal care centres in Galway, Portlaoise and equipment required to become started ordering personal protective and Wexford. These centres provide kidney Liam a trusted domestic supplier and manequipment (PPE) from China as that was the only place you could get it at the Ferguson ufacturer of fully certified and regulated PPE for frontline healthcare workers.” time.

“It is about having a safe, sustainable, and “That’s when B. Braun decided to respond quality-assured, domestic PPE supply. We and create Type IIR medical-grade face masks really wanted to help Ireland in its time of for healthcare workers.”

Editor: Clodagh Dooley need. Our local teams have shown such comDeputy Editor: Shauna McCrudden mitment to the healthcare community. We Trusted supplier Advertising: direct@inmsales.ie Liam Ferguson, managing director at B. Braun couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Liam says B. Braun pride themselves on Medical Ireland, had approached the Irish facDesign: Susan McClean, responding quickly in a time of crisis. “Our tories, to see if it was possible to manufacture INM Design Studio, Belfast corporate colours are green, but we very much these face masks. And as B. Braun Medical Repro: Independent Newspapers (Ireland) wore the green jersey when making these. is a subsidiary of the international B. Braun “We have done everything possible to ensure Group in Germany, they required approval Limited, 27-32 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 that the equipment and supply needs were of this new manufacturing focus from the

A BeCreative Editorial Production www.becreative.ie

brought into the Irish healthcare system and mobilised in the most efficient way. As we manufacture locally, this helps to keep money and jobs within Ireland too. We approached this task as citizens of Ireland, in order to help mitigate the risks of Covid-19 and improve the health of the country.”

Visit bbraun.com/en/company/contact/ locations/bbraun-in-ireland.html

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

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Truth unmasked!

Express yourself with a selfie mask from selfiemask.ie

FROM MEDICAL-GRADE TO BESPOKE DESIGNS, WE LOOK AT WHICH FACE MASK YOU SHOULD CHOOSE

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waste this creates is astounding. I am a community pharmacist, and I noticed a shortfall in the supply of face masks, particularly reusable ones. I wouldn’t even recommend masks containing filters safely. either, as they are often made of polyproBy law, you are required to wear a face pylene or a mix of different plastics. So, I covering: believe for a more sustainable future, go ● on public transport for reusable fabric masks.” ● in shops, shopping centres and Co-founded by Annmarie some other indoor settings Fagan, who has a background You should also wear a face in fashion and garment covering: design, Reusable Mask Europe ● when staying two metres are an Irish company that apart from people is difficult produces high-quality masks in large ● in a healthcare setting wholesale quantities. They have a ● when visiting anyone who is diverse customer base including retail more at risk from Covid-19 Niall Barnwell pharmacies, hospitality, accounting But there are so many different and finance companies, and constructypes of face masks out there, that tion companies. it can be confusing to know which to buy. So, “We follow WHO guidance in terms of the which should you choose?

Niall Barnwell, pharmacist and Head of Sales materials used, with three layers. We ensured our packaging was in line with legislation and at Reusable Mask Europe (reusablemaskecompliant with SWiFT19 guidelines too (a urope.com), says most people should stay specification developed by National Standaway from disposable masks. They are only ards Authority of Ireland). We differentiate necessary for a small percent of people in risk ourselves on quality and offer block colours at groups and in certain situations. great prices.

“It was frustrating to see surgical masks “It is disappointing to see a lot of poor-qualbeing sold in huge quantities and pharmacies ity masks being sold because as a pharmacist, encouraging I often have customers complaining about single-use, irritated skin caused by masks that are often disposable made from polyurethane/spandex blends behaviour,” or neoprene. Masks are now a part of everysays Niall. day clothing, so choose wisely and choose a “The amount of comfortable, safe mask made to exact health A reusable mask guidelines. There has been an increase in from Reusable the use of face shields also over the last few Mask Europe months. There is little evidence demonstratith Covid-19 becoming the new normal, we have adjusted to wearing a face mask on a daily basis, as it is an essential tool to move about our days

ing their efficacy in preventing virus transmission, and thankfully the government and media are starting to draw attention to this.”

Selfie as a mask Reusable face masks definitely seem to be the way forward, but what about the designs? In our fashion-conscious world, with masks sticking around for the foreseeable Cyril future, people are finding ways to incorporate them into their outfits.

Different colours are great for most occasions, but have you ever wondered if you could put your own picture on your mask?

Selfiemask.ie is a unique service. You upload your own photo or design, and they print your facemask for you. This is particularly useful in healthcare situations, or even around children as it is very difficult to recognise people when half their face is covered.

“During a recent stay in Cork University Hospital, I found it difficult to recognise the individual nurses as only their eyes were

visible,” says Cyril Walsh of selfiemask.ie. “And thus, the business idea was formed. We print the mask for an introductory price of €12, including worldwide free shipping, until the end of November.”

The company behind selfiemask. ie and selfiemask.uk is Premier Health. Premier Health has grown over the last decade to be Ireland’s leading supplier of own-label vitamins to pharmacies in unique formulations in tablet, soft gel, and hard-capsule formats.

Walsh As the masks are all designed and printed in Co Cork, this Irish brand has digital print-on-demand technology. This means you can have a photo of your own face printed in non-fading ink on your washable and reusable mask. And if you don’t want your own face on show, you can also upload any design or image of your choice or select from selfiemask.ie’s own bespoke options. Maybe you want to match your favourite outfit? You can create a mask to suit any need.

There are many options to choose from, but as face masks won’t be going away anytime soon, you should only choose the best.

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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Stride in the right direction

SAFE-STRIDE ARE GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND WHEN IT COMES TO SOURCING QUALITY PPE FOR ALL TYPES OF BUSINESSES

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ovid-19 has affected every business and individual in Ireland,” says Ciaran Sweeney of Safe-Stride, a leading family-run Irish business that provides a wide range of commercial hygiene products and services. “And Safe-Stride hasn’t escaped that impact.”

Ciaran continues, “We have tried to stay positive and have spent time enhancing and streamlining some of the time-consuming tasks that mainly relate to how we manage our office and warehouse.

We also redeveloped our website, and then went in search for even more innovation that would support our customers with the management of Covid-19.”

only to our exceptional customer service, but also in our ability to source quality, affordable products that meet and exceed our customers’ needs.”

Safe-Stride provides a wide range of products and services to cater for all types and sizes of businesses. While the key elements of virus and bacteria control were always a part of what the company specialised Family pride in, they knew that they needed to do Ciaran Established in 1990 by Ciaran’s father Sweeney more as they saw the entire country, and Ciaran J Sweeney, Safe-Stride is now the world, shut down overnight. run by Ciaran alongside his two brothers, Tur“We wanted to be able to offer our existing lough and Liam. “My father had a belief that customers, and hopefully new ones, sim‘good customer service was the key to creating ple, cost-effective solutions to support and a successful business, without it you were on enhance the safety of their business, their a path to failure’. We are pleased to say that 30 staff and their customers. years on, we have developed a reputation as “Our Safe-Stride Automatic Hand Hygiene a company that ‘goes that little bit further’ to Dispenser is one of the best in the business exceed our customer’s expectation. and comes with a lifetime warranty. The “We attribute our success in business, not sanitiser formula in the dispenser is dye and

fragrance-free. It is also enriched with shea butter and vitamin E to moisturise the skin.

Our amazing HYscent air fragrance dispensers enhance the environmental experience by providing innovative dispensing technology delivering the highest quality fragrances”.

Ciaran says the AeroGlove Automatic Poly Glove Dispenser is revolutionary, eliminating the need to touch the outside of the glove when applying the gloves, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

“We also sourced a superb piece of technology called the 99Point9 Automatic Door Handle Disinfecting System. This keeps handles 99.9pc free of bacteria and viruses all the time.”

Ciaran adds that the team offers training on the use of their products and equipment.

“We conduct hygiene audits for our customers during every visit to support them in excelling their standards. We even offer the service of providing and servicing first-aid needs.”

Commitment Ciaran says selecting the right suppliers is vital to the success of any business. “Where possible, we try to source our products in Ireland.

We regularly purchase products from further afield to ensure we

Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

can continue to price competitively and bring new innovative products and solutions to the market. We have long-standing relationships with our supply partners. They understand our commitment to product quality and the ever-growing need for eco-friendly products to ultimately reduce our impact and footprint on the environment.

“That’s why we went with the biodegradable glove for the AeroGlove dispenser.”

Safe-Stride’s customers are varied. “From the guy who runs the pub at the bottom of our street, to the retailer who has 160 locations nationwide, including Centra, Spar, Circle K, Supervalu, BWG, Yamamori, Compass Group, Joe Duffy Group, Mater Private, Intel, Irish Ferries, Wrights of Howth, Aviva Stadium and many more.”

Ciaran adds, “Regardless of how extensive our business has grown over the years, we still offer that unique ‘family mentality’ service to all our customers. This ensures that we always exceed our competitors when it comes to the quality of our products and services. You only have to take a look at our 99Point9 technology, our AeroGlove and the features of our Hand Hygiene Dispenser to realise that.

“We want to deliver safe solutions that can eliminate and control the spread of this virus.”

Visit safe-stride.com

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

The great demand LESLIE BRETT AND PADRAIG CALLAN OF LENNOX SPEAK ABOUT THE INCREASED DEMAND FOR PPE AND SHARE THEIR TIPS ON PPE FOR SCHOOLS AND OTHER LARGE FACILITIES

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e have always sold PPE as part of our portfolio for our customers, as there are certain environments that require it, for example laboratories,” says Leslie Brett, CEO of Lennox, Ireland’s longest established supplier of personal protective equipment.

However, Leslie says that from March of this year, demand increased from sectors that had never previously required PPE. “We have tripled the number of people that are working on PPE since March, in response to the increased demand. We have increased the capacity of the delivery fleet and our range of PPE products by about 50pc.

“There was initially a shortage of products, but our team shortened our supply chains to ensure we had what our customers needed.

It has been incredibly busy, but we all pulled together as a team.”

Expertise Founded in 1923, Lennox delivers best-inclass scientific, manufacturing, production and laboratory solutions, by combining 100 years of experience with technical expertise. The company, which has sites in Dublin and Cork, works with customers operating across sectors in Ireland including pharma, bioprocessing, Leslie Brett

food and beverage, medical devices, higher education, agri-business, life science, R&D, hospitals, biotechnology and independent laboratories.

Some of their PPE products include hand sanitiser units and refills, disposable and reusable masks, thermometers, gloves, aprons, disinfectants and disposal equipment. Leslie says it has always been a priority to ensure that their products meet quality standards.

“Many people may not be aware of the rigorous standards that need to be met for PPE to be effective. We often come across and reject PPE products that do not reach those standards – from misleading or missing labels on products such as hand sanitiser to inadequately-certified masks.

“Our PPE is in strict compliance with European Quality Standards and Irish government guidance. As winter sets in and numbers rise, it’s more important than ever that those standards are met.”

Lennox products are used by the education sector, frontline health workers, the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, An Garda Siochána and the Department of Justice and Equality, among others.

One factor such large industries or businesses can feel confused about is how much PPE supplies they should order for their staff. Padraig Callan, Head of Business Development at Lennox, advises: “Whether you’re organising PPE for a business, a school or a

college, your first port of call should be to talk to your PPE supplier.

“Once we know the number of people we need to supply PPE for and the products required, we can advise on the amount that should be ordered and how often.”

Dedicated service Lennox Educational is the company’s dedicated arm for their education customers. For schools and third-level institutions, Lennox has developed a handy PPE Quick Pick form, which includes a dedicated calculator based on Department of Education recommendations. Padraig says, “If schools input certain parameters around student numbers and staff members, for example, they can calculate the amount of PPE they will need for a defined period of time.”

This facility is available at lennoxeducational.ie. “We have Padraig been working with the eduCallan cation sector in Ireland since

An Irish company with a proud history, Lennox has worked closely with its customers through periods of change and crisis since it was founded in Dublin in 1923. Pictured are Lennox employees in Dublin in 1930.

1963, supplying scientific and lab supplies to schools and third-level institutions across the country.

“Since schools started preparing to return, we have also been supplying the PPE needed to protect faculty and students in the classroom.”

Leslie Brett says companies come to Lennox because they are trustworthy, “They appreciate the level of expertise that we have. Most of our team have science and engineering backgrounds. They know what to look for when it comes to sourcing the highest quality PPE possible, and what products work best for each industry.

“We know that purchasing PPE is a whole new world for many, but it is one that looks set to stay. We aim to make the process as easy and painless as possible so that our customers have peace-of-mind.”

Visit lennox.ie

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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Innovations helping to protect the public sector

WHETHER IT’S FOR HEALTHCARE OR HOSPITALITY, EDUCATION OR PUBLIC TRANSPORT FACILITIES, HERE ARE SOME INNOVATIONS SUPPLIED BY MAXXCARE, THAT ARE HELPING TO MAKE SPACES SAFER

Aeramax

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orn out of necessity when the Covid-19 crisis struck, maxxCare are leading suppliers of PPE and sanitisation solutions.

Tony McMullan, Director of maxxCare, says, “‘Making spaces safer’ is our vision for supporting healthcare, schools, nursing homes, hotels and restaurants, tourism attractions, SME’s and large corporations, to help the industry fight and prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“Covid-19 has changed all our lives and the way we protect one another is the number one priority. To this end, we have partnered with global suppliers of innovative products that are helping in the fight against Covid-19.”

And recently, maxxCare launched their full online store maxxcareshop.com that showcases their full range of products. (Use code ‘Independent’ to get a 10% online discount.)

Here are two innovative products maxxCare supplies, to help increase the health of citizens:

Tony McMullan

UVD Robot – Ireland’s first robot sanitisation solution May of this year was a milestone when the first UVD Robot arrived in Ireland. The UVD robot is revolutionising disinfection and is leading the battle in enhancing the cleaning routine.

The robot is aimed at preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases, viruses, bacteria, and other types of harmful organic micro-organisms in the environment by breaking down their DNA-structure. The robot is safe, reliable and eliminates human error. Furthermore, it is user-friendly and is designed to be operated by everyday cleaning staff.

Researchers say, in a post-Covid world, the UVD Robot will become part of our everyday lives, as it helps sanitise airports, train stations, hotels, hospitals, care homes, manufacturing facilities and office blocks.

To book a demo or see the UVD Robot in action, visit uvd-robot.ie

UVD Robot

Aeramax – clean air matters 90pc of our time is spent indoors.

It’s important to think about indoor air quality, as the air we breathe indoors is up to five times more polluted than outdoor air.

Public and shared spaces, like offices, healthcare facilities and schools are breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, dust and allergens, and harsh chemicals and odours. While we all recognise the need to wash our hands and clean common surfaces like doors, tables and bathrooms, it may not always be enough.

Aeramax is a professional air purifier, using innovative PureView™ technology, where you can watch the air being cleaned in real-time.

The PureView digital displays continually read the room, showing you the cleaning process, and you’ll get a readout of the percentage of particles captured.

Give your staff, patients, students, residents, and visitors the visual assurance that the air they are breathing, while on your premises, is constantly being purified and filtered, removing all air-borne viruses and bacteria. Aeramax cleans the air of 99.9pc of airborne particles.

Aeramax is available in Ireland from their retail partners maxxCare.

Visit maxxcareshop.com

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AEDs make saving a life simple

At the heart of the pandemic WHILE WE ALL MIGHT BE FOCUSED ON PROTECTING OURSELVES FROM THE VIRUS THESE DAYS, IT’S ALSO IMPORTANT NOT TO FORGET ABOUT OTHER ASPECTS OF OUR HEALTH, PARTICULARLY OUR HEART HEALTH

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recent study from the Smidt Heart Institute in the US suggests that the current pandemic has had a significant negative impact on the survival of people who suffer from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

The lower survival rate is attributed by the unwillingness of bystanders to start Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), as well as longer ambulance response times due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

David Greville, founder of Heartsafety Solu-

tions, a leading Irish supplier of Automated External Defibrillators (AED), says, “A cardiac David Greville arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating and immediate action is required to save the victim’s life. CPR and a shock from an AED are required within the first few minutes for the victim to have the best possible chance of surviving.”

Crucial times The American Heart Association reports that for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation, the chance of survival reduces by 7-10pc. In Ireland, around 5,000 people die every year from cardiac arrest.

“The number of people who die from sudden cardiac arrest is far greater than the number of people who die from Covid-19,” says David, who was a former firefighter and paramedic and founded his company after witnessing many incidents of sudden cardiac arrest, where help arrived too late. “Yet the current pandemic has taken attention away from other serious issues, such as cardiac arrest, heart disease and cancer. It has also taken a lot of available resources, meaning communities are less prepared to deal with a cardiac arrest.”

There are groups of volunteers around the country called Community First Responders (CFRs), for example. “Their role is to respond to cardiac arrests within their communities when alerted by the ambulance service. They provide CPR and defibrillation within those crucial early few minutes, before the arrival of an ambulance.

“CFRs have been stood down nationally due to the hazards presented by Covid-19. This means that when a cardiac arrest occurs in the community, the victim has to wait for the closest ambulance to respond from an ambulance service already overworked with Covid calls.”

Caring for the community David strongly feels that the availability of nearby ‘Public Access Defibrillators’ has never been more important. “Many towns and villages around Ireland are installing defibrillators in key locations around their community, so that the right equipment is at hand when needed.

“AEDs are medical devices that will take you through each step of a rescue. They perform an ECG (electrocardiogram), which is a simple test that can be used to check the heart’s

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Defibrillators increase survival from cardiac arrest rhythm and electrical activity, to determine if a life-saving electric shock is required or not.

“If a shock is required, the AED will charge up and deliver the shock to convert the victim’s heart rhythm to a normal one.”

Modern units are also connected to the internet via WiFi or cellular network. These units will constantly perform self-checks and will send alerts if there are any issues such as a low battery or expired pads, ensuring the devices are always ready for an emergency.

Heartsafety Solutions’ products are all quality assured and approved by health professionals. And for any individual or organisation that has questions about the use of AEDs, David advises getting in touch, “We can guide you through the steps of investing in a defibrillator. We can also help to make sure that it’s well-maintained. There’s no point in going to the expense of purchasing one, to find that it’s not properly working in a life-threatening emergency.

“While it’s so important to protect ourselves with the right equipment from Covid-19, we also need to think about the bigger picture and make sure our communities and organisations are well equipped in the case of a heart-related emergency. Particularly if ambulances can’t make it to the scene on time.

“After all, we have looked out for each other during Covid-19, let’s do the same with other aspects of our health.”

Visit hearts.ie

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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Surviving the crisis

LIMERICK-BASED COMPANY, GREENSPAN, PROVIDES A RANGE OF PPE SUPPLIES TO HELP PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.

THEIR SUPPLIES HAVE EVEN BEEN PROVEN EFFECTIVE IN LIMITING THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS IN CHINA

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uring the past two decades, Greenspan China. But during this period, we learned a lot – suppliers of specialist construction from our Chinese suppliers, whom we have products for both the commercial and developed a long and trusted relationship with residential sectors – has seen many ups over the last 10 years of trading.” and downs. And the company has survived the downs.

Demand “The business suffered as a result Having visited China on many occaof the construction crash in sions, the company was able to draw 2008, due to reduced demand for on their established production building products,” says Michael lines, in order to survive the worst Cregan, Managing Director of of the crisis once the lockdown Greenspan. came into force.

However, Michael says the com“Initially we saw a sales surge in our pany adapted to the changes, new construction products due to the high Michael products were introduced and sales demand for hospital beds and the buildCregan started to grow at a pace again, as they ing of extra hospital space. Then, some returned to profitability in both 2018 of our suppliers in China diversified and 2019. into manufacturing PPE to help in the fight But, like many companies, 2020 saw further against the virus in China. challenges for the business.

“They offered us the opportunity to get “The arrival of Covid-19 in Ireland created a involved and so, we started to import PPE lot of uncertainty in the construction world,” initially for our own staff and office.” says Michael. “Prior to this, our supply chain Since then, Greenspan has made these had been restricted due to the lockdown in products available to their customers and local

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equipment, our experience with certification and testing of building products stood us in good stead. We wanted to maintain those same high standards. All products have been verified by our CE assessors.”

Greenspan has diversified into the sale of PPE and sanitising systems since early March and also set up a division within the company called Greenspan Covid-19.

“In addition to face masks, we have developed a range of disinfectant and sanitising systems, which offer fast, easy ways to sanitise large areas. These include: walk-through sanitising tunnels, temperature control stands, hydrostatic foggers, standard foggers, spray guns, shoe disinfectant mats, hypochlorous disinfectant and UV sanitising wands.”

They have products which can sanitise everything from small treatment rooms and surgeries, to large areas like shopping centres and building sites. These systems also offer facial recognition and controlled access for large-scale companies in the corporate world.

“We also supply a range of ‘disinfectant foggers’. These operate by dispershealth professionals. ing disinfectant in a fine dry mist, “Many of the directives recommended which volumises areas and can kill from our suppliers in China have proved bacteria in under a minute. This to be instrumental in the control of the contains no harmful chemicals or spread of the virus. odours and is safe. Fogging has “From the start, they advocated the proved successful in schools, wearing of protective face masks and churches, gyms, restaurants and the need for sanitising public areas surgeries. with suitable disinfectant daily.

“We have been successful “But six months on, we are still in obtaining the distribution not adopting all of these measrights for this product and we ures in Ireland. I feel we have see this a gamechanger in the neglected the experience of fight against the spread of the other countries, which have virus.” had much more success than From the start of the crisis, Europe in controlling the Greenspan also adopted spread of the virus.” such measures for their own Greenspan workplace, so that staff could Quality fogger continue to work as normal.

From the onset, Michael says they “Companies that ensure public safety will sought advice from medical professionals in really help to restore confidence for both the Ireland to ensure their imported products customer and staff.” were up to standard.

Visit greenspan.ie “When it came to checking the healthcare

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Pivoting to PPE!

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Louise Lonergan

WE SPEAK TO TWO COMPANIES ABOUT HOW THEY’VE ADAPTED THE BUSINESS TO HELP IN THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

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istoke Distillery Ltd, a family-run craft gin distillery in Co Louth, produces multiple award-winning gins. But what sets the company apart is their recent venture.

“In March of this year, we decided to produce hand sanitiser at the beginning of the Covi-19 pandemic,” says Sarah McAvinchey, Director of Sales at Listoke Distillery Ltd. “We were the first distillery to do so and initially just wanted to supply our Listoke Hand Sanitiser local community. However, there was a serious shortage of sanitiser The sanitiser is 70pc alcohol, at the time, so we ended up supplyand can be used for surfaces, as ing homes and businesses across well as for hands. “This ensures Ireland.”

Covid-19 cannot survive on desks, Sarah says the set-up of their online door handles, shopping trolleys or shop greatly helped this feat. “We Sarah other communal areas. Whatever were so happy to provide hope and McAvinchey hand sanitiser you choose to use, relief to so many facing these unprecensure it contains alcohol otherwise it will not edented times. As well as supplying schools, kill the virus.” nursing homes, clinics, businesses and indiListoke Hand Sanitiser is now an integral vidual households, we have also donated over part of their family business. “We will con5,000 litres to charities and the most vulneratinue to supply the product, as well as donate ble in our society since March.” as much as we can to those in need.”

Sarah says the sanitiser is unique because it Contact Sarah on sarah@listokedistillery. is distilled with botanicals. It contains natural ie or (086) 795 8330 oils and added glycerine to moisturise the skin. “There are no harsh chemicals, such as Supporting customers hydrogen peroxide, meaning that the user’s “I was 23 when I started my business, Lonerhands will not go dry or raw from continuous gan Corporate Gifts,” says Louise Lonergan, use and it’s suitable for skin conditions such CEO of the corporate gift buying service. “My as eczema. Parents and teachers all over Ireparents have raised us to be very confident. land insist on using Listoke Hand Sanitiser, as Three out of four of us are entrepreneurs and it is the only one they have found suitable for are running successful businesses in our chotheir children’s hands.”

sen industries. My partner (now husband) has been a great support too.”

Louise says she had learned lessons from the difficult last recession. “I understood from the last recession that unless I had goods that people ‘needed’ rather than ‘wanted’, I would be in trouble.

“I deal with large businesses like Pfizer, Irish Rail, Bus Eireann and IBM. I understood that the procurement, HR, and health-and-safety departments were struggling in all of the companies we deal with. All of a sudden, they needed to buy items they had never needed before.

I really felt for them.”

As well as having her companies ‘Lonergan Corporate Gifts’ and ‘Lonergan Reward & Recognition’, Louise now runs ‘Lonergan Health & Safety’.

“Lonergan Health & Safety was well-established for years, but March saw the official launch with our new website healthsafetyproducts.eu. We deliver a range of PPE in

under seven days, with free delivery in Ireland and the UK.” Louise says the company always aims to support their customer, “I very quickly got working on vetting suppliers, exploring stock and supply chain possibilities, and communicated with customers about how we could help them.”

They now supply medical and reusable masks, visors, hand sanitisers with over 70pc alcohol, sanitiser dispensers, thermometers and much more. “The biggest movers at the moment are Care Packs that we send out directly to staff at home.

These are bespoke and can suit customers’ requirements.

“One of our staff is also a dedicated Covid Officer and can help guide companies that may not have a health-and-safety team.”

The company supports all size of businesses, but large and multinationals are where Lonergan excels. “We can offer bespoke services on a grand scale. We had 3,000 home deliveries recently for Care Packs.”

Louise says launching Lonergan Health & Safety has proved that it pays to take a risk, even after 22 years. “I was delighted to be able to help companies protect their staff and customers. My team is always ready to help.”

Visit healthsafetyproducts.eu

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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PPE | 15

Zinaida Procopciuc of Uniformal produces anti microbial masks pictured at the UNIFORMAL factory

Barry McCabe, Managing Director, Uniformal with his wife Chiara Keating, Director

Irish manufacturing company leading the way in reusable face masks

UNIFORMAL ARE CREATING HIGH-QUALITY MASKS FOR BUSINESSES AND HEALTHCARE TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF COVID-19

U

niformal is a second-generation, multi-award winning, Irish manufacturing business run by husband-and-wife team Barry McCabe and Chiara Keating.

They employ 30 full-time staff at their premises in Ballymount, Dublin 12, where they provide workwear and PPE to a cross-sector of businesses.

“We have positioned ourselves as one of the leading suppliers of PPE and Covid-related

cleaning products to schools and colleges since they reopened after the lockdown,” says Barry. “We are also delighted to manufacture facemasks for a wide range of nationwide organisations such as An Post, and Bank of Ireland, as well as leading construction firms in the state. Our masks are particularly popular with Irish businesses, as they are manufactured in compliance with the new NSAI SWIFT 19 standard for re-usable cloth barrier masks.”

In addition to being a full-service manufacturer and supplier of PPE, Uniformal also carries an extensive range of Covid-19 related cleaning products and equipment including

fogging machines and electrostatic sprayers.

“We are particularly excited about our latest product offers. We have added a new easy-toinstall 600 x 600mm workplace ceiling extractor fan. This independently tested and certified extractor fan reduces the spread of airborne bacteria and viruses, including Covid 19, in the workplace by destroying their DNA structure with UV lights. We have also upgraded our number one selling Uniformal reusable cotton barrier with the added protection of ViralOff anti-viral textile-finish, proven to kill viruses including Covid by 99.5pc within two hours.”

All the products sold fully comply with the relevant regulatory requirements and are appropriately certified. Barry says as more and more companies are letting their staff go, people have never been more aware of the importance of buying Irish and protecting Irish jobs.

“We took the decision to switch the majority of our Dublin production capacity over to manufacturing reusable face masks. Not only did this timely decision mean we did not have to lay-off any staff, but we found ourselves having

to recruit additional staff during the lockdown!

“During March and April, we took the decision to supply masks exclusively to nursing homes and to do so at net-cost. Despite running two shifts per day, our factory still struggled to keep up with demand from nursing homes all over Ireland.”

As all experts, from NPHET to the World Health Organisation (WHO) continually stress the importance of PPE, Barry says the use of the correct PPE is essential.

“From face masks and hand sanitisers to face shields and disinfecting machines, the Government is attempting to balance the health of the people with the wealth of the economy, by encouraging and facilitating a safe working environment.

Uniformal is primarily a direct business-to-business supplier. Their products are also available through a select group of trade-resellers in Ireland and the UK and their reusable face masks can also be purchased individually in over 60 pharmacies nationwide.

For further information, visit uniformal.ie

16 | PPE WE SHARE SOME OF THE INCREDIBLE IRISH COMPANIES INNOVATING HAND PROTECTION PRODUCTS SanKind Hand Sanitiser

Univet Ltd, an indigenous Irish family pharmaceutical company, has recently launched their new hand sanitiser, SanKind, which they have been selling to schools, churches, medical centres, and retail stores nationwide.

This diversification into hand sanitiser was a response to meet the needs of the nation during the pandemic.

Developed by Univet’s in-house pharmacist and team of expert scientists through rigorous testing and thorough research, SanKind’s quick-drying capabilities leave hands feeling immediately soft and sanitised. The core formula in SanKind is based on the World Health Organisation (WHO) formulation for protection against SARS-CoV-2, containing 75pc (v/v) Isopropyl Alcohol. Its additional moisturising agents and neutral pH ensures it is suitable for sensitive skin.

The pharmacist at the family-run business in Tullyvin, near Cootehill explains, “We tasked our R&D team to design a product that is both kind to skin and guarantees sanitisation.

SanKind is manufactured and filled in our ISO class 7 Cleanrooms and scientifically tested for quality and safety in our on-site GMP compliant labs.”

The pharmacist adds, “We treat our sanitiser

SPONSORED

All hands on deck L-R Siobhan Sweeney, QA Manager, Nicola Feeney, QC Manager, Siobhan Crowe, Brian Crowe, Business Development Manager

Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

months and have received extremely positive feedback from the principals involved. Along with supplying the hand sanitiser nationwide, Univet has started the process of registering the product for the European market. So the future is bright for the local company, which is licenced by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA).

SanKind is available in local retail stores, such as Hannigans grocery in Cootehill, Eason’s in Cavan and Mullingar, and stockists nationwide.

Visit univet.ie

Super supplies

Niall Fitzpatrick, and his colleague Eamonn Carey Niall – who have over 60 years’ Fitzpatrick experience between them in laboratory supplies – founded their company Fitzpatrick Lab Supplies, when they discovered a large gap had developed in the marketplace. “Suppliers had become inflexible, less efficient and unable to accommodate client’s needs,” says Niall.

As an independent distributor, Fitzpatrick offers a range of scientific, laboratory, chemical, education, and PPE products, from leading manufacturers. They have been supplying PPE such as nitrile gloves (a disposable glove used to protect against cross-contamination or infection) to contract laboratories, the higher education sector, food industry and pharmaceutical sector. with the same levels of regulatory and quality “The availability of gloves, as with all PPE, assurance as all our medicinal products. has become an issue since the outbreak of “During early development, our microbiCovid-19. However, with our contacts ologist challenged SanKind to a broad range of commonly encountered in Germany, we have been able to keep our supplies rolling in.” human pathogens. SanKind was Based in Co Meath, Fitzpatrick 100pc effective at killing these Lab Supplies also provide hand microorganisms at a concentration sanitiser from high-quality manapproximately 1,000 times the level which is normally found on human ufacturers. “All hand sanitisers we source are in compliance with the skin, using only 1ml of product at time EU Biocidal Products Directive, which zero.”

Eamonn Carey assures safety for human use.”

Univet has been supplying schools nationwide for the past number of Visit fitzpatricklabsupplies.ie

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

SPONSORED

Maintain ‘Sanity’ home, the Europharma Concepts team took the risk to come to work because they wanted When Covid hit, the HSE was running out of hand sanitiser and reached out to Europto help out.”

Made with 70pc plant-based alcohol and harma Concepts, a medical device contract naturally derived glycerine, Sanity Hand manufacturer in Co Offaly, to see if they could Sanitiser provides medical-grade antibactemake this specialised product. rial protection. “It absorbs quickly, and helps “We were shocked to see formulas on the market that either didn’t work – for to protect and moisturise your hands, example, alcohol content was under without sticky residue. It is clinically proven to be effective against the 60pc – or were not compliant,” coronavirus and to kill 99.9pc of says Declan Lenahan, Research bacteria.” and Development Director, Europharma Concepts Ltd. “Some Europharma Concepts also make, were not registered as a biocide, or source, other PPE products in Ireland or Europe. 70pc of the Sanity PPE a chemical substance intended to range is Irish or European, with a goal destroy or exert a controlling effect on Declan to get to 95pc by mid-2021. The range any harmful organism.”

Lenehan The team at Europharma Concepts includes hand sanitiser, face shields, felt they had a duty to act. “As medical device masks, hand soap, gloves, thermometers, dispensers and more. professionals, we have experience working Sanity supplies the HSE, NHS, Department with formulations with high alcohol content.” of Education, as well as commercial, hosThey also have over 35 years’ experience formulating biocides, but hand sanitiser was pitality and beauty businesses. Their hand new to them. However, they were up for the sanitisers are also stocked in SuperValu, Boots and McCauley’s Chemists. challenge and created Sanity Hand Sanitiser.

Visit sanitycares.com “When most people were in lockdown at

PPE | 17

Innovative hand-sanitising technology between fills, more than 7x that of many Irish company Safe Hand San have developed imported units, cutting operator costs by more precision hand-sanitising dispensing techthan half.” nology. The founders of the company, Patrick The products are designed and manufacMagee, Tom Hughes and James McGilloway, tured in Ireland. Thousands of units have are long-time exponents of “lean manufacturbeen sold across Ireland and the UK through ing”, which is about eliminating struggle and their distribution partners and sister company increasing operational efficiency.

Solv-X, based in Dundalk. They have recently When they saw the basic sanitising solutions started exports to the USA. at the beginning of the pandemic, they The majority of installations have been in knew that there had to be a better way. high footfall retail, as well as hospitality Leading distribution company and education.

Solv-X, managing director Colm The team has recently developed a O’Neill joined the team and was bespoke solution for public transable to contribute early market port applications, where previously input about the huge operational on-board hand sanitising has not burden in the grocery space. Staff been possible due to safety concerns. needed to make hourly checks to They will shortly be launching a fully make sure that the small units were Tom Hughes connected IoT WiFi-enabled unit, to full and to clean messy floors. There drastically reduce the costs of operatwere also ever-increasing sanitiser costs. ing multiples of dispensers in large facilities “We devised a unique solution,” says Tom through predictive maintenance functionality.

Hughes, “with a seven-litre tank and precision A world-first in this field. pump technology, engineered specifically Contact tom@safehandsan.com, visit to their gel that allows for 9,000 dispenses solv-x.com or call (042) 937 7055

18 | PPE

SPONSORED

GETTING YOUR WORKFORCE COVID-READY

“All products manufactured and distributed

by Chemstore are tested and certified to the highest standard,” says Shane.

“We remain optimistic and determined to meet the challenges the pandemic has created, whilst we feel opportunities have arisen to overcome these challenges. In such a testing time for our economy, we all must play our part in supporting Irish businesses.”

Their full PPE range is available at chem-eshop.ie. Visit chemstore.ie for more information

Industrial Safety Equipment

HERE IS ALL YOU NEED TO BE READY FOR EMPLOYEES IN THE OFFICE, FACTORY, OR HEALTHCARE SETTING The types of PPE vital for the return to work include:

Gowns

Derek Eakin Ltd was established in 1980 as a national clothing distributor to the retail sector and has now become the market leader for the distribution of school wear (hunterschoolwear.ie). As Covid-19 hit, they have expanded the business into distribution of PPE made through one of their business partners in Portugal. “We also have a fully operational factory in Dublin. However we were forced to close temporarily back in March due to the pandemic, but kept manufacturing through one of our business partners in Portugal,” says Jonathan Eakin, Director of Derek Eakin Ltd. Now they manufacture scrubs in different fabric weights, and both reusable and disposable gowns. They also supply antibacterial wipes, disposable and medical-grade face masks, children’s reusable sublimated face masks, and face shields. All products are produced according to the technical requirements and according to OEKO-TEX (a face mask safety certification).

“We prioritised meeting customer demand and supplying medical-grade PPE to both the NHS and HSE.

Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

products.

“Chemstore is recognised as the industry leader in providing engineered safe product solutions and associated PPE products in Ireland and the UK,” says Shane O’Carroll, Managing Director of Chemstore. “Several HSE hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country such as the Mater Hospital, have utilised our range of PPE products. This product range complies with the most stringent legal, health and safety and corporate social responsibility concerns of our customers.”

Shane Mask storage Chemstore manufactures and supO’Carroll plies a comprehensive range of PPE for Chemstore is a family-led SME based a wide array of industries. These include: in Co Limerick. Celebrating its 27th year in ● Hazardous materials stores business in 2020, Chemstore enables clients ● Critical equipment and PPE for safe use and to create a safer workplace for their employees handling of hazmat by providing an all-encompassing range of ● Mask storage devices tried and tested products and services. They ● Respirators manufacture products for the storage of vari● Face masks ous classes of hazardous materials and critical ● Gloves equipment. They also supply healthcare PPE

“It is imperative that we stop the spread of Covid. We’re all too familiar now with the importance of protecting each other on a daily basis, but it’s particularly important to protect those putting their lives at risk on the frontline.”

Having managed to secure agreements with hospitals to meet a growing and immediate demand for PPE, Jonathan says, “the quality, service and turnaround we offer is second to none.”

Call (087) 699 2865 or email jony@derekeakin.com

For over 40 years, Rexel Industrial Supply Solutions (RISS) has been providing distribution from its centres in Limerick, Cork and Dublin. As part of the Rexel Group, they have expertise in distributing a wide range of products which includes PPE, cleanroom consumable products, industrial safety equipment and MRO (maintenance, repair and operational) products.

Pat O’Brien, Sales Director for RISS, says, “We have a broad customer base in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, food, chemicals, and electronics sectors. RISS services a range of high-profile multinational companies, providing a comprehensive service package in line with the best practice of modern industry.”

Covid-19 has presented challenges on a global basis never seen before.

This has led to specific PPE products in particular becom- Pat O’Brien ing unavailable. But Pat says RISS’ supply chain partners are committed to a balanced distribution of their products.

This supports public health and governmental response to Covid-19 and ensures product availability to existing industrial customers, whose operations rely on their products.

“RISS has partnered with Inventor-e to provide innovative means of tracking the consumption of PPE and consumable stocks, ensuring our customers have clear and accu-

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

use chemicals to disinfect the area around it, but our TAC V+ and TES200 only use heat.

They are a 100pc environmentally-friendly solution available on the Irish market.”

The machines are suitable for use in a range of settings including nursing homes, hospitals, restaurants, retail outlets and office spaces. The machine doesn’t require any installation and can be moved from room-toroom.

“Simply plug it in and go,” says Kevin. “We understand that businesses are worried about staying open at such a sensitive time, and that’s why we want to make the TAC V+ and TES200 a part of the conversation as soon as possible.

Visit Viriiquip.com

Face masks

Brentwood Coffee Head of Product Anna Kurcon and ViriiQuip’s National Sales Manager Kevin Flynn rate visibility at all times.”

Accurate live reporting of stock issued from Points of Use within a production facility or hospital, can trigger replenishment request and provide accurate usage by area.

Streamlining inventory with innovative Inventory Management Solutions will drastically improve efficiency and productivity, eliminating manual processes. This allows customers time to focus on other areas of their business.

“The iVendScale system logs inventory data collected via the scales as products are dispensed. There is also SmartStores, an enterprise-level storeroom management solution enabling customers to effectively manage and control usage of material in a storeroom environment. It provides real-time enterprise-wide visibility and control over their materials to make sure that they are getting the most out of their investment.”

Pat says RISS’ supply chain partners are committed to a balanced distribution of their products.

PPE | 19

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“We have made provisions and action plans with an expertly managed supply chain continuity plan in place to be able to maintain our supply of critical PPE. “We remain committed to serving our customers both in Ireland and the UK .”

Visit rexelindustrial.ie

Air purifier

Covid-19 can spread through small droplet particles that linger in the air. Irish and UK virus protection company ViriiQuip has a solution for airborne Covid-19 – a new air purifier which kills 99.995pc of the virus in the air.

Manufactured in Germany, the ViriiQuip’sTAC V+ Air Purifier and TES200 Thermal Disinfector are the only portable machines that have been developed and independently tested and verified to remove viruses from microdroplets and aerosols.

Kevin Flynn, ViriiQuip’s National Sales Manager, says, “The TAC V+ and TES200 use technology that no other air purifier on the market is using. Other machines will generally

Paragon Health is a Northern Ireland-based manufacturer of Type IIR Surgical Face Masks. It was established to help meet the demands for PPE and to provide a stable and safe local supply of surgical masks.

“We wish to help ensure that our frontline workers and local communities are protected during Covid-19 and are prepared for any

future crisis,” says Martin Tierney, Director of Paragon Health. “We specialise in the manufacture of Medical Devices from our ISO:9001-2015 accredited facility. Our products conform to the general safety and performance requirements of the Medical Devices Regulations 2017/745 Annex 1.”

These Type IIR face masks are in line with local and national guidelines on the safe use of face coverings and Personal Protective Equipment. They are three-ply SMS fabric, fluid-resistant, latex-free and have over 98pc bacterial filtration efficiency.

Order online at paragonhealth.eu or for high volume orders, call their pricing specialists at +44 (0) 287 772 5263

Martin Tierney

20 | PPE

SPONSORED

Clean catering

EMist sprayer

HERE WE HIGHLIGHT THE BEST EQUIPMENT TO CREATE THE SAFEST FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS

Food hygiene

Located in Naas, Co Kildare, the leading catering and hygiene products company, Premiere Hygiene, has been serving local and national customers for over 25 years.

“We supply a wide range of PPE products, including masks, aprons, gloves, safety glasses, and safety shoes,” says Ivor Hegarty, Managing Director for Premiere Hygiene. “We have an extensive range of sanitising products, from alcohol gels for hand hygiene, to surface sanitisers, wipes and much more.”

Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

Premiere are agents for Diversey, a global player in the hygiene market. Their customers include healthcare and nursing homes, schools, industry, retail, hotels, restaurants, cafés and more. They provide PPE to make all establishments as safe as can be.

“Premiere Hygiene has built a strong customer base over the years and can react quickly and efficiently to customer needs. So, get in touch to find out if the team can help you and your business.”

Contact Ivor Hegarty on 1890 998938, Richie Curry on (045) 435417 or Derek Gynn, Regional Sales Manager on (087) 709 1442, or email sales@premierehygiene.ie

Just spray it

Viroprotect is a Cork-based European distributor of EMist electrostatic sprayers. They are committed to stopping the unnecessary spread of sickness and infection in every

community, and with EMist’s patented technology, it provides for the most effective surface treatment.

Kevin Murphy, Chief Executive Officer of Viroprotect, says, “The EMist sprayers are powerful, effiMany disinfectant manufacturers cient, and cost-effective disinfecdo not approve the use of their tion sprayers. The sprayers place an product with foggers like they do electrostatic charge to disinfectants with electrostatic technology. The as the chemical leaves the spray nozdroplet size that is created from fog is zle, which causes the chemical droplets also too small for the disinfectant to be Kevin to cling to virtually any surface. The Murphy effective unlike with EMist. sprayer cleans, disinfects, and sanitises Kevin says, “You can use any water all-in-one.” soluble disinfectant with the sprayer, and it This is good news, as according to the will use the technology to disinfect surfaces Journal of Hospital Infection, SARS-CoV-2 can thoroughly.” remain on surfaces for hours and even up to Visit viroprotect.com nine days. And microorganisms can survive Clean hands on surfaces for days, and be hidden from current spray and wipe methods.

Established in 1969, the Norton Group has Using electrostatic technology provides grown into one of Ireland’s leading suppliers effective, and safe coverage and eliminates of crockery, cutlery, barware, catering and cross-contamination of dangerous pathogens. kitchen equipment to the hospitality sector.

When using EMist, the working area can be Based in Cloghran, Co Dublin, they stock re-entered within minutes of disinfection major brands such as Churchill, Arcoroc, vs the recommend 3-4 hours with foggers.

Utopia, Neville, Robot Coupe, Lincat and

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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PPE | 21

Coughy filter

Against the backdrop of a global pandemic and the shortage of PPE supplies, a number of seasoned medical devices and logistical entrepreneurs joined forces in May 2020, to establish an Irish PPE business called Oran Textiles. Padraig Ryan, Business Development Director, Oran Textiles Limited says, “Our mission was to supply the Irish population with the very best available antiviral, antibacterial, reusable face masks at an affordable price.”

Marrying world-class Italian textile (CIFRA) skills with Swiss biochemistry know-how (HEIQ), Oran Textiles launched on the Irish market. Treated with HeiQ Viroblock technolPadraig Ryan, ogy, Warpmask, is anti-viral and antibacterial.

Oran Textiles The mask is machine washable up to 20 times and is waterproof.

Oran Textiles has also expanded its product many more.

Declan Connolly, Managing Director offerings to include the provision of of Norton Group says, “The company disposable three-ply masks, nitrile examination gloves (multiple-use continues to source innovative prodexam gloves), as well as the distriucts around the world, which gives bution of Viroblock NPJ0E. This is our customers the opportunity to among the first textile technologies keep up-to-date with current food trends worldwide. Our knowledgein the world proven effective against SARS-CoV-2, by the Peter Doherty able sales staff are always on-hand Institute for Infection and Immunity to advise customers in selecting Declan in Melbourne, Australia. products that best suit their needs.”

Connolly HEIQ Viroblock is designed for a wide This year, the Norton Group sourced a select number of PPE products. With range of applications; curtains, upholstery, mattresses, face masks, and medical over 500 unit sales to date, their stainless steel gowns can all benefit from this innovative sanitise station with automatic dispenser fabric treatment. is available at the special price of €149 plus Visit orantextiles.com VAT. It has sold across many business sectors, which include hotels, restaurants, nursing Catering supplies homes, coffee shops, hairdressers, chemists, banks, petrol stations, offices, schools, creches Catering Disposables is one of Ireland’s largest disposable food packaging and hygiene and many more. suppliers. Servicing wholesale, retail, and “The PPE products we have sourced are foodservice customers nationwide, they designed to protect the safety and welfare of offer thousands of products from paper cups, both our staff and customers. Staying safe has disposable glasses, wooden cutlery, takeaway always been our top priority.” containers, gloves, and paper hand towels.

Visit nortongroup.ie

focused on the presentation of the meal and Sharon Dowling, Director of Catering the journey from restaurant to home.”

Disposables, says, “As a family-owned Irish The business now provides all types of company, we can truly acknowledge how PPE, from gloves, masks, aprons, shoe massively important it is to support local coverings and hand sanitisers, all fully business and employment through certified and fit for purpose. this uncertain time.

“We saw and reacted quickly to “Covid-19 has affected how we the high demand for PPE, esperun and do business. Over the past cially gloves. We also saw massive few months, we have completely spikes in categories such as our re-thought our working environpaper hand towels, which grew by up ment to ensure the wellbeing of our to 60pc due to increased hand hygiene staff. We also met new challenges, Sharon such as the increase in restaurants Dowling practices.”

Catering Disposables have now and pubs offering takeaway and to-go launched their 360-degree virtual showroom options for the first time and requiring unique tour to continue sharing the showroom expesolutions. Working closely with our customrience with customers into the future. ers, we supplied packaging that not only Visit cateringdisposables.ie provided excellent heat retention, but also

22 | PPE

SPONSORED

KN95 mask

Disposable mask

Reach for the PPE

WITH THE HEALTH SERVICE BECOMING OVERBURDENED DURING THE PANDEMIC, REACH GROUP ANSWERED THE CALL TO HELP

W

magazines. The company distributes a wide hen Covid-19 hit, Irish companies range of top-selling publications including had a problem. The economy was the Irish Independent, Irish Times, slowing, and business was Irish Examiner, Sunday Independent, not as thriving as it used to Sunday World, Farmers Journal, RTE be. This led to many businesses Guide and many more. Reach Group thinking outside the box to suroperates across the island of Ireland, vive the financial downturn and with warehouses in Dublin, Belfast, create products and services that and Derry. the healthcare system desperately “Over the years, the company has needed. leveraged the strength of our extensive One of these businesses is Ian distribution network to diversify into Reach Group, the trading name of Keogh other areas,” says Ian Keogh, CEO of Newspread Ltd, Ireland’s leading Reach Group. “Today, Reach Group operates wholesaler/distributor of newspapers and

very successfully in the wholesaling and distribution of PPE, hygiene products, food packaging, stationery and books.”

With daily deliveries to more than 7,000 locations nationwide using a fleet of 300 vehicles, it is one of the most comprehensive distribution networks in the country. In August of this year, Reach Group was appointed by the Department of Education and Skills as an approved supplier of PPE, consumables and equipment to schools and colleges throughout the country.

“To date, we have supplied a wide range of PPE and hygiene products to over 1,000 schools across the country. This includes thousands of litres of hand sanitiser, sanitiser dispensers, plus a huge volume of soaps, face masks, wipes, gloves, bins and more. Schools continue to order replenishment supplies daily through Reach’s online e-commerce platform, reachretailservices.ie.”

Reach Group’s versatility is demonstrated by some of the other public sector contracts it operates, including a twiceweekly delivery and collection service to and from 343 Public Libraries nationwide on behalf of the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and the collection of used batteries from retail outlets throughout the country for WEEE Ireland (a waste management service in Dublin). The company’s delivery network spans many channels including supermarkets and newsagents, schools, hospitals, medical centres, pharmacies, libraries, hotels, cafés, delicatessens and more.

Established relationships Ian says that Reach Group has established relationships with a number of trusted suppliers around the world, including in Ireland, Europe, China, and other locations, guaran-

Friday, October 23, 2020 IRISH INDEPENDENT

teeing direct access to substantial quantities of PPE. “All products are certified and quality-approved, ensuring they meet the highest standards required by key business customers and public sector clients. Reach is keen to source as much product as possible in Ireland and earlier this year became the exclusive distributor for a non-alcohol hand sanitiser called CleanSmart, which is manufactured by CF Pharma in Kilkenny.”

CleanSmart contains no alcohol, but kills 99.9pc of germs and is an anti-viral/ anti-bacterial solution so it’s less harmful on skin. It is approved by the FDA and Department of Agriculture and is listed by the EPA as being effective for use against Covid-19.

The onset of Covid-19 has led to a massive increase in the number of operators supplying PPE. But Ian is confident the company can compete strongly in what has become a well-serviced sector.

“I believe our broader range of quality products meets the needs of a larger number of customers. We have everything from hand sanitisers, to face masks, to non-contact thermometers. Plus, a hygiene range including detergents and disinfectants, mops and push-pedal bins.

“We have had significant growth in the business over the past five years and remain very agile and quick to adapt to changing market conditions. I think it is this agility which has enabled Reach Group to deliver high-quality PPE to our customers under unprecedented conditions at very competitive prices.”

Visit reachgroup.ie

IRISH INDEPENDENT Friday, October 23, 2020

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PPE | 23