DURBAN - From creating sets and handling production designs for international film productions, a Cape-Town company has decided to use its resources to become part of the solution and it’s now producing Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
With the local film and media industries brought to an almost standstill due to the Covid-19 crisis, Oxo Productions' initiative has created jobs for industry freelancers who have been left in the cold.
Owner of Oxo Productions Riccardo Pugliese said: "The idea of manufacturing personal protective equipment came about when we as creative film industry people asked ourselves how we can help provide a service that is urgently needed in these times and at the same time keep our freelancers and staff gainfully employed.”
The company has been supplying various industries with unique and custom-designed items based on demand since 2002. With its roots in the local film and production industries, Oxo Productions consists of a collective of highly creative problem solvers with in-depth knowledge and decades of experience in production and manufacturing.
The company says it is now exclusively focusing on the design, production, manufacturing and supply of PPEs in the country, as a response to the urgent demand for face shields, visors and face masks for frontline workers during the Coronavirus pandemic.
"Sourcing materials has been a challenge but our suppliers seem to have a more steady flow of stock coming in now, and we are happy and able to commit to producing larger quantities and to keep up with the demand. We are proud to be out there and making a difference during this time, on a social and economic level,” said Pugliese.
With the first commission for the shields having come from a Cape Town hospital, the design caters specifically for medical/hospital environments, where components of the shield need to be removable for sterilisation. A simpler version of the shield for non-medical environments, where the components are fixed and non-removable, is also available.
"The initial requirement was for cotton face masks and progressed by the demand to quality face shields, which can be worn comfortably for several hours. Our Face Shield, in particular, is in high demand for its fine quality and comfort," he added.
More information and order details can be found on https://oxoproductions.co.za
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