Blood bank shares the journey of blood

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) last week unveiled the world’s first ‘Journey of Blood’ facility at SANBS KZN’s regional headquarters in Mount Edgecombe.

This state-of-the-art laboratory allows the public to walk through the facility without physically entering the laboratory’s space.

Here they can witness first-hand the testing and processing of lifesaving blood. SANBS built the facility to raise awareness of blood transfusion in the province, and grow the donor pool so KZN eventually has sufficient blood stocks to meet its own needs.

SANBS CEO, Ravi Reddy said the centre highlights the operating philosophy at SANBS – long-term sustainability, risk mitigation and a values-based culture for donors, staff and patients.

‘Our team is eager to share their expertise with our valued donors,’ said Reddy.

‘Regulators, scholars and students are also welcome to experience the journey of blood with us.’

The 7 500 square metre lab houses the following features:

* A glass ceiling providing a full view of the journey of blood

* Interactive information screens

* It is a solar-powered ‘green building’ with a borehole water system and a negligible carbon footprint

* A drone port on the roof of the building

* Laboratories built in line with good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards

* A restaurant for donors to enjoy meals before or after donating blood Donors can donate blood up to six times a year, with one unit of blood saving up to three lives.

Those in blood groups A and AB, between the ages of 18 and 65, are eligible to donate plasma every two weeks to a maximum of 24 times a year.

For more information on SANBS or how to donate, visit www.sanbs.org.za

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