Kimberley Clothing workers are working vigorously behind their sewing machines to provide members of the public with face masks.
KIMBERLEY Clothing workers are working vigorously behind their sewing machines to provide members of the public with face masks.
Face masks have flown off the shelves and are not being restocked near fast enough to cater for the demand since the coronavirus hit South African shores.
The owner of Kimberley Clothing, Rikkie Alsemgeest, said that they started taking orders this week.
“While our main line of work is sewing school uniforms and clothes, we decided to start manufacturing masks to assist with the prevention of the spread of the Covid-19 virus,” said Alsemgeest.
“We have been inundated with requests, with thousands of orders streaming in. We are battling to keep up with orders, but are, on average, managing to produce about 750 masks per day.
“Our staff are working in shifts and are social distancing. They wear face masks while they work and also have access to transport to work. They are very dedicated and committed to finishing all the orders on time.
“It also assists our workers to earn an income during these difficult financial times.”
Alsemgeest said the masks were designed with a double layer that is durable, washable and reusable.
“While it is not meant for surgical use, it will offer protection to the ordinary man on the street. I have also received a number of orders from medical personnel. We have a number of designs, patterns and colours to choose from. The prices are kept reasonable so that members of the public can afford to take care of themselves.
“At the moment we will not be able to supply customers from out of town until the lockdown regulations are lifted for courier services.”
Alsemgeest added that while there was some controversy surrounding the use of masks, they did serve to offer a reasonable measure of protection.
“It helps people to remind themselves not to touch their faces and it helps to contain the possibility of virus spread from sneezes and coughs.”
