CSIRO launches accredited face mask testing facility

CSIRO has launched an accredited surgical face mask testing facility in Melbourne.

The new facility, accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), provides a rapid turnaround on mask testing helping protect frontline healthcare workers.

Until now Australian companies had to send masks and materials overseas for testing.

CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall said: “This new facility will give Aussie businesses another solution from science to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives.

“Science is guiding us through COVID-19, and science will help us grow on the other side.”

Manufacturers can use test results obtained at the CSIRO facility to demonstrate that the performance of their medical masks is suitable for supplying Australian hospitals, as well as contributing to the global pandemic response.

Picture: CSIRO/blood penetration test measuring resistance to synthetic blood

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