Gujarat's Guru Govind Singh Hospital becomes first to make PPE

To meet the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), the doctors of Guru Govind Singh Hospital, Gujarat have made an indigenous protective unit and named it as- 'Kavach'. The Kavach comes up with two models which cost around Rs 500 to 850.

Jamnagar: Named ‘Kavach’, the doctors of Jamnagar’s Guru Govind Singh hospital have made Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the hospital staff to meet its shortage at the time of coronavirus infection threat.

There is a severe shortage of PPE in many hospitals which are treating COVID-19 patients. The G G hospital, working as a 700-bed facility for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, needed at least 2,000 PPE units for doctors, nursing and other paramedical staff. Though the hospital had an adequate number of PPE units, for the time being, it would require more PPE units in future in the eventuality of increase in the number of COVID-19 patients.

To meet the shortage, the doctors here have prepared a PPE which they have named as ‘Kavach’.

Kavach PPE set has three components – a full bodysuit with a hood, shoe cover reaching up to the knee and a face shield. The complete set is made of non-woven, spun bound 70 + 20 GSM lamination material. The material has been certified by the South Indian Textile Research Association (SITRA).

Also, the hospital claims that they have made two models of ‘Kavach’– Kavach Plus and Kavach N X.

The Kavach Plus comprises of a full-body suit along with the hood, shoe cover up to the knee, face shield and a three-layered mask. It costs around Rs 550.

The Kavach NX comprises of full bodysuit along with the hood, shoe cover up to the knee, a pair of sterilized gloves and an N95 mask. It costs around Rs 850.

It has been designed and made especially for doctors treating COVID-19 patients keeping in mind all safety aspects. It is easy to wear and remove and covers the entire body including the eyes. The material used in making the Kavach has been tested against the entry of artificial blood.

Many philanthropic organizations have come forward to contribute financially to the GG Hospital for making the PPE kits which are being made on no profit no loss basis.

The complete PPE kit is expected to reach the hospital in a few days. The hospital plans to provide this kit also to hospital staff and policemen.