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High quality PPE masks: Made in the UK for the UK
Hardshell, a British manufacturer of safety products such as body armour and armoured vehicles, is now one of the UK’s first medical-grade PPE mask manufacturing companies. The company stepped up to the country’s challenge and established manufacturing lines in Wales to provide the UK healthcare industry with the resilient supplies it needs in the fight against COVID-19 and any future pandemic.
Hardshell UK produce a full range, including FFP3 masks that protect healthcare workers from COVID-19
MediWales member Hardshell UK worked diligently, with the support of the Welsh Government, to establish a 1500sqm facility in Cardiff, which is now manufacturing a comprehensive spectrum of PPE, ranging from single-use Type IIR, FFP2 and most importantly FFP3 masks that provide protection to the wearer. The company also has reusable face masks for personal social use.
Short supply chain with base fabrics produced onsite in Cardiff
The primary objective of Hardshell UK was to create a resilient supply of PPE that is sustainable in the event of another crisis, such as a pandemic. The venture is unique in that the company produces the raw materials for the masks in its facility in Cardiff. The production team works on its own line of machinery to complete the full manufacturing process on the same site. This shortens supply chains and offers a sustainable and reduced carbon footprint. Quality assured thanks to in-house testing
While the ambition of Hardshell UK to become an agile PPE manufacturer was boosted by the production of melt-blown fabric at the same facility, the company has gone a step further towards selfsufficiency by establishing an advanced in-house testing facility. In this stringent laboratory setting, a series of tests for filtration efficiency, breathability, splash resistance and face-fit are performed. This valuable capability contributes to the rapid completion of these comprehensive tests on the Type IIR, FFP2 and FFP3 masks, assuring the highest quality standards throughout the production process. Future Focus on Customer Net Zero Plans
Keeping environmental concerns in mind, and the stated needs of customers like the NHS for net zero in future, the company has been working closely with recycling firms to investigate, evaluate and reduce the impact of its products to the environment. By manufacturing masks locally, including raw materials, Hardshell UK eliminates the need for large scale overseas imports. Through these significant steps towards sustainability, Hardshell UK reduces the end user’s contribution towards their carbon footprint.
Hardshell UK, being a vertically integrated company, is capable of manufacturing and delivering masks in very short lead times, reducing the UK’s dependence on foreign suppliers. The company also works in close collaboration with other UK-based manufacturers to provide other raw materials in the long run, allowing it to speed up mask production and supporting other British companies.
