The Foods and Drugs Authority (FDA) Ghana on Tuesday reiterated the need for the homemade face or nose masks manufacturers to adhere to strict hygienic production protocols to ensure that their products are safe for usage.
The Authority direct local manufacturers to ensure that production staff dress appropriately, cover nose, wash hands regularly and sanitize hands before sewing whilst tools are also intermittently disinfected.
The masks must remain free from contamination before giving it out, Mrs Delesse A. A. Darko stated at COVID-19 Press Briefing organised by the Ministry of Information.
The press briefing forms part of measures to provide updates on the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
Mrs Darko said approved manufacturers must stick to the fabric used during the approval process.
She said the FDA has so far approved 41 Manufacturers of face or nose mask and shields, across the country to ensure that the citizens had access to the recommended types of protective gear.
Mrs Darko said the FDA met with the Garments Association to ensure that they share the information with the seamstresses who are part of the Association on the requirement for sewing a mask.
She said the masks that are sewn should allow people to breathe comfortably through them and not suffocate users, adding that “when you wear a good mask, you can wear it for the number of hours and you can still breath”.
She said the Authority recommends that the mask should be made out of plain fabric and the fabric that is used should be cotton or any cotton derivative like calico.
Mrs Darko said it is advisable to have the mask pleated which enables it to cover every part from the nose to the chin adding that, there was the need to avoid the square nose mask.
She explained that the reason for the recommended three-layered was to slow the rate at which particles are transferred from one person to the other.
She urged the public to approach the FDA at its headquarters, any of its regional offices, or through any of its contacts to seek clarifications.
By Julius K. Satsi, GNA
