Etihad Airways has amplified its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to support those affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The airline has highlighted the development of face shields for medical staff in a new video released to mark Zayed Humanitarian Day.
In an effort to provide additional safety for medical staff interacting with patients, the Etihad Airways Medical Centre (EAMC) collaborated with Etihad Engineering to develop personal protective equipment (PPE) that would add an additional layer of protection for healthcare professionals working in medical centres across the UAE.
Dr. Nadia Al Bastaki, Vice President Medical Services at Etihad Aviation Group said: “With the logistical support of Emirates Red Crescent, we’ll start distributing the face shields to medical professionals at EAMC and SEHA this week.”
The face shields are designed and manufactured using Etihad Engineering’s latest 3D printing technology certified by the highest aviation standards.
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The shields were validated by EAMC’s medical team to ensure protection.
It is constructed of a reusable plastic band which requires standard disinfection (similar to a mobile phone) and a disposable plastic shield which can be replaced with sheets found at any stationery store. Additional plastic sheets will be distributed with the face shields.
Since the start of the pandemic, over 3,000 Etihad Airways’ employees have volunteered to support a number of government entities and initiatives including deployments to SEHA, Ma’an and Emirates Red Crescent. 800 staff volunteers alone have registered on the UAE Volunteers Platform, a community response to COVID-19.