Defence and security company Leonardo uses 3D printers to make PPE

Aerospace, defence and security company Leonardo is employing its high-tech equipment to make PPE for carers in Edinburgh.

The multinational giant has begun production of protective visors at locations across the UK, to be distributed to local care centres. It estimates that teams will be able to produce up to 700 visors a week across the country.

The visors made in Edinburgh will be given to Harmeny Education Trust, the site’s nominated charity.

Led by Marek Korda, Mahbub Iftekhar and Iain Whyte, the team aims to provide 60 visors for the charity, while maintaining social distancing measures and following guidelines on safe handing for their production, packing and distribution.

Harmeny Education Trust is a residential school and care home, which offers support and encouragement to vulnerable children in Scotland. Carers at the charity asked Leonardo for help when it became clear staff would need PPE to allow them to look after children who may get sick during lockdown.

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Alison Acosta, Fundraising and Communications Manager for the charity said: “It has been incredible to receive this support from Leonardo employees.

“As a residential school and care home for vulnerable children, Harmeny continues to provide care and education to all the children throughout the coronavirus outbreak.

“Our priority, as always, is to support the children and protect the staff who continue to deliver

compassionate care in these extraordinary times.”

Marek Korda said: “We recently hosted a visit from the children at Harmeny

Education Trust and they are truly inspiring young people.

“We want to help Harmeny in any way we can and we hope this protective equipment will help them through this challenging time.”