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Bristol Uni produces hand sanitiser for city’s key workers
Academics, researchers and technicians from the University of Bristol have sourced the raw materials, secured the necessary certification and produced around 1000 litres of hand sanitiser over the past 10 days.
A team from the university’s school of chemistry is producing the sanitiser for key workers throughout Bristol, including the emergency services, postal workers and waste management staff.
The isopropanol-based sanitiser is one of the two World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended formulas, with the team set to continue to produce the free sanitiser for the city to help meet the rising demand.
is needed now More than ever
Led by professor Tim Gallagher, the team’s next target is to make a further 2,000 litres in the coming weeks, with a second WHO-grade hand sanitiser specifically aimed at hospitals and care homes.
Professor Gallagher said: “This has been a real team effort, with unstinting support from colleagues from across the University, the city council and our external partners and suppliers.
“The demand for WHO-grade sanitiser, and the raw supplies needed to make it, has soared in recent weeks, and with absolute reason. It’s vital that our front-line workers are as protected as possible, so they can continue to carry out their crucial duties and keep our city running.”
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees said that he was “incredibly grateful” to the University of Bristol for their “generous donation”.
He said: “This equipment will be going straight to those on the frontline of tackling the virus, particularly care and residential home settings who are supporting some of Bristol’s most vulnerable citizens.
“This is another great example of Bristol pulling together during a crisis, and I’d like to thank everyone across the city who has volunteered their time and expertise in recent weeks in response to the virus.”
Main photo: University of Bristol
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