Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
540. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Health if he has considered procuring more sustainable PPE equipment that can be used more than once after proper laundering and disinfecting in view of the fact the Covid-19 pandemic will be here for some time, the cost of PPE equipment is expensive and the equipment is not always available [7428/20]
View answerMost personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed for single use and immediate disposal so as to minimise the risk of spreading infection. However, this practice creates a number of issues in terms of cost, sustainability of supply, and environmental impact. With these issues in mind, the HSE is already investigating the possibility of procuring more sustainable PPE, such as reusable surgical gowns which can be sterilised between uses.
