Limpopo has sufficient PPE levels, says Health MEC
During a visit by Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba to the depot in Seshego, it was revealed that sufficient stock levels of PPE were available.
The Limpopo pharmaceutical depot has about R150 million worth of stock which is mainly Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for public facilities.
This was revealed by depot manager Makena Langa, during a visit by Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba to the depot in Seshego to monitor PPE stock levels on Friday, 29 January.
During the visit it was revealed that sufficient stock levels of PPE were available including some new improved face masks for healthcare workers after Langa had received complaints of the previous one’s from health care workers.
“These new masks are easier to put on and do not hurt the ears after wearing them all day. The comfort of our workers is important as well as ensuring that they are using the safest PPE in the fight against Covid-19.”
Langa mentioned that they received a new type of face shield that makes it easier to work with. “The previous face shields we used would hinder our workers while wearing them. These ones we have procured are goggles focusing mainly on the eyes and gives them maximum protection.”
According to Langa, the only item not currently available is the coveralls, but the department will be using gowns instead.
“This is just an interim measure while we wait for the procurement of overalls. The gowns are still effective and we have enough in stock to supply our institutions”.
He says that the delay in the procurement of this item comes as they were not readily used before the pandemic and the provincial department has to rely on a national contract to procure them.
He adds that these items will be available at the depot by the end of the month.
Ramathuba exclaimed that she was satisfied with the PPE stock levels and the quality thereof.
