Dumfriesshire’s Alpha Solway has created a revolutionary transparent face mask which is to be rolled out across the NHS.
Approved for use in health and social care settings on Wednesday, the masks feature a clear anti-fog front panel positioned to prevent reflection.
This will enable lip reading and make communication easier between patients and medical staff.
NHS National Services Scotland ordered 2.3 million of the masks and has started distributing them to health boards.
Alpha Solway, which is part of Globus Group, has factories in Annan and Dumfries.
Managing director Steven Binnie said: “The breakthrough of our transparent respiratory range will be invaluable for the estimated 12 million people across the UK who live with hearing loss and struggle to communicate with those wearing face coverings as the Covid pandemic continues.
“Positive non-verbal communication has been shown to decrease patient anxiety and give better outcomes. And it gives the patient confidence that a physician is sensitive and understanding. As a result, the patient is more trusting and communicative.
“While our current range of face masks and respirators offer the highest levels of protection, the MX C will add significant benefits in areas where non-verbal communication is essential.”
Mary Morgan, chief executive for NHS National Service Scotland said: “This is a key step in improving communications with patients and staff as we continue through the pandemic.”
“It is also great news that the masks are being made right here in Scotland.”
