A Dundee company is helping the fight against coronavirus with the creation of millions of swab tests and PPE for the NHS.
Hutchison Technologies has been working in partnership with NHS National Services Scotland since early April to create testing kits.
The firm’s medically accredited ISO13485 division has worked with an international network and after delivery of a preliminary sample batch of swab testing kits to NHS Scotland for approval, it was given the green light.
Two consignments have been filled and a third is on its way. The firm has pledged to work with the NHS to create more equipment as long as the demand is there.
Around two million tests will be used throughout Scotland as part of the test, trace, isolate and support initiative to track the virus and lower the risk of a second wave.
CEO Bruce Hutchison said: “With our medical quality assured team of employees in China, we were able to audit the factories and regularly visit to inspect the goods prior to shipping and then manage the whole logistics operation.
“NHS National Services Scotland can therefore purchase with confidence in knowing goods sourced through Hutchison have all the required certifications, are of the highest quality and will be delivered on time.”
NHS National Services Scotland national procurement director Gordon Beattie said: “Working in partnership with Hutchison Technologies has helped to ensure an increased supply of swab sample testing kits throughout NHS Scotland.”
Trade Minister Ivan McKee said: “We have received thousands of offers of support from organisations across the country, and it is fantastic to see so many businesses like Hutchison Technologies step up to support the national response.
“Their work with NHS Scotland is making a huge contribution to Scotland’s Covid-19 response, and demonstrates what can be achieved when the public and private sectors collaborate to tackle the many challenges caused by the global pandemic.
“Hutchison Technologies’ contribution is helping ensure that front line staff have the protection they need, and we will continue to work with them and others to ensure this remains the case.”
