Scan Magazine | Business Feature | InnoVern
surgical face masks as safe and comfortable as possible. Developing innovative and sustainable high-quality masks Surgical-grade face masks typically come in two different grades. Type II is less secure but easier to breathe through. Type IIR, the splash-resistant and most secure type, is harder to breathe in due to its density and material. Now InnoVern has managed to combine the level of security of Type IIR with the breathability of Type II, ensuring that the wearer gets enough oxygen and comfort throughout the day. The new face mask, named InnoVern Duo, has already been tested and CE-approved as both Type II and Type IIR. This, in turn, eliminates errors that can occur when users are confused by the Type II and Type IIR labelling – confusion that can increase the risk of infection for the wearer.
Another aspect of producing face masks locally as opposed to importing them is sustainability. Producing the goods locally using Norwegian and European suppliers reduces emissions and improves stability in terms of delivery. Automating the production process to the fullest extent effectively cuts down material waste, and InnoVern continually cooperates with suppliers on developing more sustainable raw materials. In addition, InnoVern is an inclusive company, hiring and training immigrants and offering language courses for its employees. Emphasising diversity, it’s also gender-conscious and aims to have a workforce of both old and young employees. But not only hospitals and health institutions need face masks. Athletes are among those who will continue to wear infection protection in the future and need
face masks that are secure and easy to breathe in. InnoVern was recently announced as the official supplier of face masks to Olympiatoppen, an organisation that is part of the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports, responsible for training Norwegian elite athletes. This contract not only ensures a continuous flow of products to Olympiatoppen, but also deliveries earmarked for the Olympic Games. This means that the Norwegian athletes will be using face masks from InnoVern during the 2022 Beijing Olympics, the 2024 Paris Olympics, the Paralympics, and several Youth Olympics Games. Web: www.innovern.no
“The InnoVern Duo face mask is notably easier to breathe in and improves my working day.” Magnus Brevik, professional driver.
Top left: InnoVern was opened by then Prime Minister Erna Solberg, here with founder Lars Einar Riksheim (left) and production manager Mathias Grebstad (right). Bottom: CEO Grethe Loe, production manager Mathias Grebstad and purchasing manager May Lisbeth Riksheim.
“I think InnoVern Duo face masks have a very good fit, and that they’re comfortable to wear, while simultaneously being easy to breathe in. This is important since I wear face masks pretty much all day long at work.” Camilla Brandal, doctor.
November 2021 | Issue 136 | 119