The union representing textile clothing and footwear (TCF) workers in Australia is calling on Border Force to take a firmer stand on the import of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
It alleges an anonymous law enforcement official has leaked claims that hundreds of thousands of dodgy masks started arriving in Australia three weeks ago.
It also alleges a global spike in the production of fake PPE products mislabelled with brand names of well-known medical supply companies.
Union official Jenny Kruschel, who represents the local TCF sector and is pushing for local suppliers, said greater action needs to be taken in Australia.
“Border Force needs to step up and protect Australians from these dangerous fakes.
“For dangerous imports to be stamped out we need to re-establish control of our borders.
“We don’t need a repeat of the Ruby Princess debacle by ignoring this dangerous problem.”
Local manufacturers are diversifying their operations in order to ramp up the supply of critically in demand PPE including masks, gowns, eye protection and gloves.
“In fighting COVID-19 our health professionals need quality PPE and that’s what local TCF companies are committed to supplying, they have the capability to manufacture the products to the standards required and are ready and waiting for government orders.”
“We must ensure that demand for medical grade PPE is met by quality, up to standard product - not dodgy imports and Border Force must play their role.”