Niosh and firm to share expertise and technology to fight pandemic

JOHOR BARU: The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (Niosh) has inked a memorandum of understanding with Honsin Apparel Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Prolexus Bhd, to allow an exchange of expertise and technology to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.

Niosh executive director Ayop Salleh said the signing marked a service collaboration between both parties to develop, strengthen and promote the development of national occupational safety and health.

He said the memorandum incorporates laboratory use for new products and test standard development, consultation services, scheduled educational lectures on the latest protective technologies, as well as information dissemination through seminars.

“As part of our joint efforts to reduce the spread of Covid-19 and increase public awareness of face mask security features, Niosh and Prolexus’ research and development teams will also be organising training seminars on protection technologies for reusable fabric masks.

“Wearing a face mask is crucial for slowing the spread of the virus, along with other Health Ministry and World Health Organisation guidelines for maintaining physical distance and washing our hands regularly, ” Ayop said after the signing ceremony.

He said the collaborative effort was subsequent to the face mask tests conducted at Niosh advance laboratories on its ProXmask^TM.

“The ProXmask^TM has been recognised as a qualified reusable functional fabric mask and Honsin is proud to earn the distinction of using the ‘Niosh Tested’ logo in its advertisements and product packaging.

“This collaboration between us and Niosh will provide both parties with a chance to exchange expertise and technology on reusable face masks while helping the nation to combat the pandemic, ” he added.

He said wearing a face mask was considered a social duty and wearing a high-quality face mask was an individual responsibility for everyone’s safety.

“This is because Covid-19 victims may be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic, so the best prevention is to be well-prepared, ” he added.

Prolexus innovation and development manager Dr B. Harintharavimal said the company aspired to deliver qualified protective, functional and reusable face masks.

“We want to ensure effective protection for everyone against the virus.

“Backed by our ProX^TM anti-virus technology, Prolexus is also set to explore innovative market segments such as personal protective apparels and a new emerging sportswear category, ” he said.