PPE News Flash - Volume 1
Intertek PPE News
Intertek PPE Centres of Excellence
In response to surging demand for PPE following the COVID-19 outbreak, Intertek has increased our PPE testing capabilities and established PPE Centres of Excellence in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Taiwan, India, Bangladesh (via Beximco partnership), Singapore, the United States and Guatemala, providing a one-stop-shop ATIC solution for masks and gowns. Read more.
PPE Recall Cases
Safety Gate (Previously called RAPEX)
In 2020, there was a large increase in the level of enforcement on the quality of PPE like face masks and coveralls throughout the EU, resulting in a total of 164 notifications related to PPE. Read more.
Regulatory Updates
WHO Updates Guidance on the Use of PPE During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The document details the World Health Organization (WHO) updated guidance on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) items in healthcare settings.
Update on UK Community Face Covering Specification
The British Standards Institute (BSI) published a guidance document, BSI Flex 5555 version 1 Community face coverings – Specification, for community face coverings in January 2021. Read it here.
Germany Mandates use of Medical Grade Masks
Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel announced on 20 January 2021 a stricter face mask measure to tackle fast-spreading COVID-19. Read more.
USA Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Issues New Order
The CDC has issued an order that requires face masks to be worn on public transportation within or out of the United States. View the CDC guide.
Intertek PPE Resources
Webinar: Verify Face Mask Compliance & Instill Customer Confidence with the Intertek Mask Label
View this on-demand webinar to learn more about the Intertek Mask Label and how it can help you win the confidence and trust of your customers.
PPE Production: Understanding Product Categories and Testing Requirements
We developed this guide for manufacturers who not familiar with the complex production requirements, to help ensure you are producing quality and compliant products. Download it to learn more.
Medical Mask Testing Requirements Guide: FDA 510(k) Submission
Following the ASTM F2100 / EN 14863 standard, Intertek developed this guide to help manufacturers understand the various test requirements, and the mask certification process. Download the guide for more information.