Chief executive Don Bailey says that Expand A Sign, which manufactures portable branding solutions such as gazebos, banners and inflatables, had shut down for the lockdown.

He reports that now, it has an opportunity to support staff and their families during the lockdown. The masks have been successfully tested using a hospital autoclave machine to prove they can withstand temperatures of up to 130 degrees.

This means that, unlike conventional disposable masks, they can be washed, sterilised and used again. "These are not the medical grade masks that our health workers require but masks that can help you and your employees to reduce the spread of the virus," says Bailey.

"We have developed a mask that is made of two pieces of locally woven 100% polyester 200gsm fabric, essentially doubling the barrier effect," adds Bailey. "It also has a handy internal pouch and elastic for an easy fit."

Masks prevent the spread of COVID-19 by trapping particles on the inside of a mask, preventing droplets from becoming airborne and either falling on others or surfaces from which they are transmitted by touch.

Masks also limit hand to face contact by acting as a physical barrier between potentially contaminated hands and the mouth and nose.

Bailey says that Expand A Sign's ability to make its own fabrics together with the sewing skills of its workforce, made it the perfect company to help manufacture this product.

Already, the company uses fabric offcuts from its branding products to make a range of Uzwelo bags. It employs community members to sew and donates a percentage to the Bateleurs, a non-profit organisation that includes pilots and aircraft owners who assist conservationists.

"As a business, we've always been innovation and service-driven, whilse ensuring we are community-focused and give back to South Africa," Bailey adds.

Expand A Sign applied for and has been granted permission to operate as an essential service to produce these masks. It has already began fine-tuning the design and quality testing the masks.

Bailey says that, although evidence of wearing face masks reduces the spread of the COVID-19 virus is largely anecdotal at this early stage, there are already significant indications that masks do help to stop the spreading of the virus. 

Japan has the strongest mask-wearing culture in the world and one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates.



"Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize, has advised all South Africans to use masks, especially when using public transport. I am pleased that our staff can help ensure that we do not have shortages of masks, while still earning a living to take care of their families," Bailey concludes.

For more information, visit www.expandasign.co.za. You can also follow Expand A Sign on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.