MIDRAND, South Africa -- The newly formed PVCMedAlliance, an industry alliance of PVC resin and plasticiser producers and converters, has set out to highlight the many advantages that exist when using vinyl in the healthcare environment, most notably its ability to reduce the risk of life-threatening and healthcare acquired infections.

The alliance, which was launched at the Global Vinyl Council (GVC) in Florida, USA in November, aims to raise the international awareness of vinyl usage and its value in the healthcare industry.

‘The PVCMedAlliance is a significant milestone for vinyl around the world,’ says Delanie Bezuidenhout, CEO of the Southern African Vinyls Association (SAVA). ‘The alliance will go a long way in encouraging dialogue within the industry, particularly with regards its use in the medical industry.’

She explains that vinyl is used far more extensively in the medical industry than just for blood bags, tubing and artificial skin. It is also used for items such as flooring, cupboards, p pipes, electrical wiring and bed coverings. Furthermore by adding plasticisers to vinyl, one is able to produce a product that is soft and flexible which dramatically improves both safety and comfort.

‘It will be part of the alliance’s role to continuously highlight the quality, safety and environmentally responsible uses of vinyl within the healthcare environment as well as to promote the research and development within the industry which will ultimately create even more uses for the material,’ explains Bezuidenhout.

The PVCMedAlliance will also:

· Produce and promote relevant scientifically-based information on vinyl use in healthcare.

· Provide a focal point for communication between regulators, the medical and healthcare community.

· Empower PVCMed members with targeted and appropriate material and messages.

· Promote partnerships with third parties to promote innovative, environmentally responsible practices with regards vinyl usage and management within healthcare industry.

Founding members of PVCMedAlliance include BASF, Colorite Europe, Eastman, ECVM, OXEA, Renolit and Tarkett

ENDS

For more information, visit www.savinyls.co.za or www.pvcmed.org

ENDS

Issued on behalf of SAVA:

Delanie Bezuidenhout

Tel: 082 444 6866

Email: Delanie@SAVinyls.co.za

For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:

Monique Holtzhausen

Aim Marketing & Communications Consultants

Tel: 021 531 0313

Cell: 071 083 5219

Email: Monique@aimmarketing.co.za