SANBS donor centre is still open for donations
Some of the safety measures implemented include an enhanced frequency of cleaning of all equipment and surfaces, active wellness screening before entry to the building and at the first point of contact and donor beds are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
DOORS are wide open and donations are still very welcome at the South African National Blood Services (SANBS).
According to the blood bank, protocols for assessing donors and cleaning donor centres have always been extremely robust with respiratory infections common, but said that they are well prepared.
However, as information about Covid-19 quickly evolves, staff is taking additional measures to enhance protocols to better protect the people who come through their doors.
Some of the safety measures implemented include an enhanced frequency of cleaning of all equipment and surfaces, active wellness screening before entry to the building and at the first point of contact and donor beds are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
Donors will be spaced out at a minimum of two metres apart when on donation beds or on a waiting chair.
According to a statement by SANBS, experts and blood operators from the World Health Organisation and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) have advised them that the use of masks in donor centres is not currently recommended for employees or donors who are healthy.
“We are currently following advice from the NICD to ensure, to the best of our ability, that employees who work in our donor centres are healthy.”
“We are taking a number of proactive steps to limit the risk of infection to our donors and staff. Employees are being asked to monitor their health and not report to work if they are feeling unwell or have come into contact with someone who is diagnosed with Covid-19.”
“Like donors, employees are subject to two active wellness checkpoints upon entry into donor centres where instructions such as hand sanitising are mandatory.
“Employees are also required to use the NICD guidance to self-isolate for 14 days if returning from international travel. Employees are not expected to report to work under these circumstances,” the statement reads.
To make a donation, visit the donor centre at Southway Mall or find the mobile drive at the Hillside Mall on the Bluff from 24 to 31 May, from 9am to 4pm. Or visit sanbs.org.za or call the toll free line on 080-011-9031 for more information.
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