As COVID-19 continues to spread rapidly, more personal protective equipment (PPE) is needed for medical caregivers and first responders who will come in contact with patients. From donating existing supplies to shifting production to manufacture PPE, there are several ways Missouri’s businesses and manufacturers can join the effort.
PPE Donation and Manufacturing
If you are a Missouri manufacturer or business that can either sell or donate current on-hand supplies of PPE, or have the capability to produce various PPE items, the Missouri Dept. of Economic Development (DED) is coordinating a supply chain replenishment effort here. View a list of the supplies and PPE specifications DED is asking for here.
PPE Large Scale Manufacturing for National Response
If you are a Missouri manufacturer that can support a larger production effort that could help multiple states, we recommend that you fill out the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) form here. Similar to DED, NAM is directing all manufacturers that have the ability to shift manufacturing operations to begin production of PPE.
For information on how to sell PPE and medical equipment to the federal government, please visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) webpage here.
FDA ruling update on non-approved PPE usage
The FDA has revised its ruling on PPE usage by healthcare workers in light of the COVID-19 outbreak by allowing healthcare workers to use the following non-FDA approved PPE:
Classification – 21 CFR 878.4040
Classification – 21 CFR 880.6260
Classification – 21 CFR 880.6260
Please note all shifting of production with the goal of manufacturing non-FDA approved PPE can be done, but manufacturers should first check with their local health care organizations and hospitals to verify their acceptance of this PPE equipment for use. Manufacturers should also consider including disclaimers on non-FDA approved PPE they manufacture and should consult with legal counsel in preparing any such disclaimers.
