Coronavirus: Commission issues questions and answers to help increase production of safe medical supplies

Today, the Commission is making available guidance to assist manufacturers in ramping up production of essential medical equipment and material in three areas: the production of masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE), leave-on hand cleaners and hand disinfectants and 3D printing in the context of the coronavirus outbreak. A guidance on medical devices will be also available within the coming days. These documents also aim to assist manufacturers and market surveillance authorities in making sure these products comply with necessary safety standards and are effective.Commissioner for Internal Market, Thierry Breton, said: “We are acting swiftly and mobilising industry to increase and create new production lines for urgent health material and protective equipment across Europe. Many companies are already doing so, and we are helping them to ensure not only that this is done quickly but also that their products comply with all necessary safety standards.”Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, said:“Stepping up the supply of medical and personal protective equipment is vital to address shortages and for our health care workers to continue saving lives. The guidance we issue today will support our industry in this effort. The fight against coronavirus requires all hands on deck and our industry’s contribution is essential.”These documents also aim to assist manufacturers and market surveillance authorities in making sure these products comply with necessary safety standards and are effective. For more details on these guidances, please find the press release here.