The Tobago Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has been taking the necessary precautions in the management of the Ebola Virus Disease in the event that it affects the island of Tobago.
TEMA has embarked on a number of training and procurement strategies to manage the situation in the event.
One of the procurement strategies includes proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to deal with any Ebola case on the island.
Additionally, the Tobago Emergency Management Agency procured one hundred (100) level C Emergency Response Kits. The Emergency Response Kits consists of coveralls, General eye protective wear, Chlorine Disinfectant Tablets, Face mask, surgical gloves, Booties, Disinfectant wipes and disposable plastic bags.
Personal Protective Equipment levels indicate the amount and type of protective gear required for personnel to respond to an incident. The following explains the level of suit and its response capabilities:
• Level A Suit: This suit is classified as the most hazardous, it is used when emergency personnel has to come in direct contact with an infected person.
o Level A Suit requires a fully encapsulated, chemical resistant coverall that provides full body protection as well as a self-contained breathing apparatus and gloves.
• Level B Suit: This is a non-encapsulated protective clothing or clothing that is designed to protect against a particular hazard. It also requires breathing devices that contain their own air supply as well as gloves and general protective eye wear.
• Level C Suit: Requires the use of non-permeable clothing and eye protection, a face mask that filters all outside inhaled air and gloves.
• Level D Suit: Requires a work uniform such as coveralls and gloves, this affords minimal protection.
The Agency has procured Suits ranging from levels A to D as part of its procurement strategy.