The new transparent MX C, which has been designed to offer high-quality protection and help patients with communication needs, has been approved for use in hospitals, clinics and social care settings across Scotland.

Leading PPE company Alpha Solway, part of Globus Group, which continues to drive technology innovation, has distributed the cutting-edge clear face masks to NHS Scotland, and they will be in use within days.

The certified UKCA/CE marked MX C has been designed and manufactured in the UK by Alpha Solway to enable clearer communication for frontline workers dealing with patients who rely on lip reading and facial expressions, including those suffering from hearing-impairments, learning disabilities, autism or dementia. Being able to communicate properly with patients, especially those communication challenges, is crucial for patient safety and wellbeing.

Effective communication, particularly in a healthcare setting, often relies on positive non-verbal elements, such as expression and emotion. Miscommunication is a key cause of medical errors and can be prevented by spotting these critical facial cues. Alpha Solway have responded to this need by producing the new, innovative HAIKA MX C transparent face mask.

The masks have been designed with the addition of a clear anti-fog front panel, positioned to prevent reflection and make lip reading easier. This helps to improve communication across the board, allowing the wearer to share a friendly smile, making conversation more natural and accessible, and helping patients understand information from healthcare professionals more easily.

This innovative clear mask has been designed in line with Alpha Solway’s leading respiratory offering, providing enhanced comfort and breathability, as many frontline healthcare workers wear their masks for hours at a time.

Commenting on the launch, Managing Director of Alpha Solway, part of Globus Group, Steven Binnie said:

“The breakthrough of our transparent respiratory range will be invaluable for patients across Scotland who live with hearing loss and struggle to communicate with those wearing face coverings as the Covid pandemic continues.

“Positive non-verbal communication has been shown to decrease patient anxiety, giving them confidence that a physician is sensitive and understanding. As a result, the patient is more trusting and communicative.

“Our healthcare team have been working closely with NHS Scotland throughout the pandemic and this new product range will help them in their interactions with patients and each other. It has been designed to offer maximum comfort and breathability, ensuring confidence for the wearer while creating a positive impact and culture for all.”