Grafton Optical launches counter top hygiene screens

Ophthalmic supplier, Grafton Optical, has released a range of counter top hygiene screens to help practices maintain distance requirements through the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, following the successful launch of its slit lamp breath shields.

The screens are made from a durable 5mm clear Perspex and are available in four sizes, with or without an access slot.

Speaking to OT, Grafton Optical CEO, David Thickens, said discussions with customers had highlighted the “urgent need” to adapt ways of working in light of COVID-19. He said: “It is very much at the forefront of our customers' concerns that they will need to put in place measures to protect both their employees and clients to facilitate a safe and smooth return to business as usual.”

With this in mind, the company designed the new counter top hygiene shields to help practices prepare for opening.

“This new product was only launched a few days ago but already we are seeing the orders come in and receiving positive feedback on these,” Mr Thickens explained.

Grafton Optical has reported a high demand for its recently released large universal slit lamp breath shields, supplying over 1000 units in the first two weeks.

“I don’t think that we were anticipating such a huge response to the slit lamp breath shields when we launched these three weeks ago,” Mr Thickens said, adding that the company is still seeing high levels of orders, including repeat orders.

“We have received some really fantastic feedback on the quality and functionality of this product, particularly with regards to the large area of coverage that the shield provides,” Mr Thickens said, adding: “We expect to see a similar response to the hygiene screens as our customers plan and prepare for the future.”

The company has also seen demand increase for disposable items such as EasyTon disposable tonometer prisms and chin rest papers.

In response to customer concerns, the company plans to launch a new disposable adhesive eye patch that can be used in place of traditional visual fields occluders to maintain infection control standards.

Both the slit lamp breath shields and the counter top hygiene shields are being designed and produced locally in the UK, Grafton Optical confirmed, adding that the supply chains remain open.

Discussing the supply of the products, Mr Thickens highlighted: “Interestingly, the company producing these for us had just furloughed some of their staff as we launched the slit lamp shield. Due to the huge number of orders placed they were able to return some of their staff to work to keep up the production of these.”

Calling it a “small good news story” in uncertain times, Mr Thickens said this showed “that UK SMEs are surviving and adapting to this difficult and challenging situation.”

OT endeavours to keep the most up-to-date news on our website and this information was correct when published. However, the situation regarding COVID-19 is rapidly evolving. Please check OT’s rolling optics-specific coverage for the latest news and guidance on COVID-19.