What Does PPE Look Like in Alberta
PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. There have been many talks about PPE and the issues surrounding limited quantities of PPE for our frontline workers. Personal protective equipment consists of medical gowns, medical-grade gloves, medical masks including N-95 respirator masks, and facial protection (visors, eye protection, and shields). All of this equipment is used by our medical front-liners who require full protection from COVID-19. This equipment provides a secure barrier for this infectious disease.
“Acquiring PPE has been a major challenge in Canada, as many countries have been outbidding each other and competing for access to a limited supply of the equipment”. Even today, the struggle to acquire this equipment is present and remains somewhat of a challenge. However, more and more, Canadian companies are pivoting and stepping up to manufacture PPE for healthcare workers. Face shields and masks have been the most challenging product to acquire. However, major manufacturers such as Labatt, Fiat Chrysler, Canada Goose, and Bosch are among the companies producing more equipment. (For more on what these companies are doing, see this list on CanadianManufacturing.com).
Canada is starting to stand on its own, and produce what is needed, rather than seeking international manufacturers to do the job. If you are a manufacturer or a company that would like to contribute to Canada’s supply chain, the government is open to applications. The Government of Canada is requesting that manufacturers who fall under the class I to IV medical devices apply for authorization in the interim to sell PPE. For more information, visit the link here.
Alberta Health Services also offers up some great resources for healthcare workers seeking information on personal protective equipment. AHS has already implemented a masking strategy, with videos and guidelines on how to safely take on and take off PPE, or in other words, donning and doffing. Resources can be accessed here.
Another great resource for healthcare workers is the frequently asked questions on the AHS website. This FAQ provides a good look at how to maintain safe PPE protocols, patient precautions when using the equipment, etc. Alberta Health Services have sufficient PPE supplies to support the current and anticipated future care needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. PPE supplies sourced through Alberta Health Services channels are known to be safe and compliant with all relevant standards, to optimally protect the front liners. Due to concerns about safety and compliance with health care standards, it is important to not introduce outside PPE into care environments. Please abide by the AHS standards of PPE and use what is provided by Alberta Health Services. To ensure healthcare workers are properly protected, please use the PPE supplied by AHS in AHS facilities. If you are a healthcare worker for a private care company, please use the PPE provided by your employer. Employers and care practices located in Alberta are using PPE provided by AHS. For more information regarding PPE topics in Alberta, please visit here. .
