Greenock factory donates 17,000 face masks
ALMOST 20,000 face masks have been donated to Inverclyde health and social care staff to help with the fight against coronavirus.
Greenock-based semiconductor manufacturer Diodes gifted the protective equipment to assist local frontline workers with the Covid-19 pandemic.
A total of 17k face masks were handed over by Edi Shearer, who works at the Larkfield Industrial Estate plant, to Eddie McDowell, from Inverclyde Health & Social Care Partnership (HSCP).
Diodes, handing over
protective masks to
Eddie McDowell,
from Inverclyde HSCP.
Diodes staff have to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times in manufacturing areas to protect the silicon wafers being produced as they are extremely delicate.
The intricate microchips made at the Greenock plant are used all over the world in a variety of things, such as cars, mobile phones and medical equipment, including ventilators and thermometers.
Councillor Robert Moran, Inverclyde Council’s Convener of Health & Social Care, said: “This is a really nice touch from Diodes to help protect our incredible frontline workers and those they are looking after.
“Society has never been so far apart and yet so united at the same time. Whilst we must stay at home where possible to reduce the spread of Covid-19, the community has also rallied round to help people, particularly the most vulnerable in society.
“This donation from Diodes is another fine example of the wonderful community spirit here in Inverclyde.”
The face masks will be added to the existing stock of PPE equipment held by the HSCP for use by frontline care workers.
Gerry McCarthy, managing director of Diodes UK, said: “This plant has been part of the community since the early 1970s and we’ve had tremendous support from so many people during that time.
“We always do as much as we can to return the favour and donating these additional face masks is the least we can do to support our selfless health and social care workers with the battle against coronavirus.”
For the latest service updates from Inverclyde Council relating to the coronavirus outbreak, visit www.inverclyde.gov.uk/coronavirus.