UP: Mathura jail inmates to make polythene-based protection equipment kit for staff and sanitation workers

AGRA: UP's Mathura jail is all set to start production of polythene based Improvised Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kit, developed by IIT Kanpur researchers, for use of their staff and sanitation workers at the forefront of corona battle.
Confirming this, senior superintendent of the Mathura jail Shailendra Maitri said that these kits had been developed by IIT Kanpur and after seeing the technique on YouTube, the NGO engaged in rehabilitation and reforms programme in the jail complex developed 20 pieces.“We have received it today and will soon start its production in the jail so we can protect our staff too,” said Maitri.

He told TOI that the improvised kit will cost between Rs 150 and 200 per piece, which is far cheaper than other PPE kits that costs around Rs 850. “In a temporary jail, our staff and cops usually interact with the accused before testing them for Covid-19 and possibilities of spread of infection remains. This kit will help them prevent contacting the diseased and moreover these are as reusable after sanitisation,” he added.
Shipra Rathi of the Khajani Welfare Society, the NGO, said, “We have taken suggestions from medical professionals before preparing the kit. This is not for doctors but for those who can possibly catch infection as they work in high risk areas like sanitation workers, cops, Jail staff."
She told TOI that they have followed WHO norms of sealing the plastic kit it without stitching. “There is a face mask, latex gloves, shoe covers, arm covers, body cover and a cotton cap in the kit,” said Rathi.