UAE 21 April 2020: A 3D printing company located at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park) has ramped up production of 3D-printed face masks, including manufacturing face shields that provide wider 180-degree protection of the face against coronavirus, Covid-19.
Immensa Technology Labs, an engineering company based at SRTI Park that usually focuses on spare parts for the oil and gas industry and 3D printing components, has succeeded in developing, designing and producing a variety of face masks that can be used to prevent Covid-19 infection, said Wam.
“Since February, Immensa has collaborated with various organisations in Europe to produce very effective PPEs (personal protective equipment) that is in short supply globally. One particular effective PPE is 3D-printed face shield, connected to a headband. The face shield or visor is made from a special polymer that repels viruses and bacteria,” said Fahmi Al-Shawwa, CEO and founder at Immensa Technology Labs.
“By March, Immensa has been producing over 5,000 face shields a week and currently Immensa has ramped up production of face shields to over 25,000 a week, supplying to numerous public and private entities across the UAE,” added Al-Shawwa.
Immensa is also developing and 3D printing connectors for ventilators and other items facing shortages as well as spare parts for non-medical machinery that are hard to source due to disruption in supply chain.
Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTI Park, said innovation, more than ever, plays a key role in combating the global coronavirus pandemic.
Dubai fines seven for tampering with face mask prices
The Commercial Compliance and Consumer Protection (CCCP), sector in Dubai Economy has imposed fines on seven traders, including three pharmacies in Warsan, Al Qusais, and Al Jaddaf, for tampering with the prices of face masks.
Two supermarkets in Al Safa; a trading company in Dubai South; and a marine services company were the others fined. The marine services company was not licenced to sell face masks, Dubai Economy said.
CCCP acted against the traders following consumer complaints and due to follow-up and investigations that validated the allegations and the traders were fined. A repeat offence would result in doubling the fines and may lead to closing down the outlet, it warned.
Dubai Economy has reminded businesses to refrain from taking undue advantage of the present situation and also called on pharmacies and medical equipment suppliers to demonstrate their social responsibility by reducing the prices of essentials, such as face masks, sanitisers, and disinfectants.
Consumers can report any negative practices, especially those relating to prices of basic needs, on the Price.ded.ae portal launched recently to expedite responses to consumer queries and complaints, or by calling 600 54 55 55, or through the Dubai Consumer app.
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