The PM 2.5 air pollution crisis in the northern region, persistently escalating since 2018, has now reached levels significantly exceeding regulatory standards across all affected areas. This issue is particularly prominent in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Lampang, Lamphun, Phayao, and Nan provinces, profoundly impacting the health of the populace. PM 2.5 significantly affects health and respiratory systems, both in the long term and short term.
Beyond the northern region, PM 2.5 pollution extends to additional provinces, including the Bangkok area, where forty-seven districts have been identified with air pollution concentrations surpassing the established red alert threshold. The three areas with the highest levels are Don Mueang District, recording 143.5 micrograms per cubic meter, followed by Lak Si District with 143 micrograms per cubic meter, and Bang Sue District with 139 micrograms per cubic meter. These findings stem from data provided by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, specifically by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) and associated bodies.
In response to this crisis, Dr. Hygiene Medical Products Company Co., Ltd. was established in 2020 with a focus on producing and distributing N95, KN95, surgical face masks and air purifiers. Dr. Hygiene, the first recipient of international standard certification in the northern region, is overseen by the Hylife Group. The initiative aims to improve the quality of life for the people in Chiang Mai and other provinces in the northern region by safeguarding against health hazards and diseases posed by air pollution and PM 2.5 particulate matter.
Throughout its operation, Dr. Hygiene has received positive feedback from all sectors, underscoring the importance of masks manufactured in Thailand as a key component in safeguarding health. The company has recently gained the trust of the government, progressing in the manufacturing and ordering of more than 2.5 million face masks intended to safeguard individuals against PM 2.5 pollution. A ceremony for the distribution of these face masks to public sector officials was conducted at Ratchaphruek Building 1, Royal Park Ratchaphruek, in Maehia Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province.
Mr. Shubhodeep Das, CEO of Dr. Hygiene and Group CEO of Hylife Group, stated, "In this pivotal moment, as Dr. Hygiene partners with the Chiangmai government to combat the pressing issue of PM 2.5 pollution, we wish to express our sincere appreciation to the Chiangmai Provincial Administration Organisation and the Chiangmai Municipality for their commitment to public health and their decision to support the local economy by choosing our Thailand-manufactured masks.
This decision not only addresses a crucial health challenge but also highlights the importance of supporting the Thai industry and the high standards of our manufacturing sector. Our collaboration exemplifies the potential of what can be achieved when government entities and local businesses unite in a common goal.
Hylife Group is proud of our role in this important initiative, highlighting our commitment to enhancing community health and promoting the capabilities of Thai manufacturing. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of the community, demonstrating the power of local solutions to local challenges.
Mrs. Watcharaporn Lin, Executive Director of Dr. Hygiene Medical Products Company Limited, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in their Thai-made masks by the Chiang Mai Provincial Administration Organisation and the Chiang Mai Municipality. "As the director of Dr. Hygiene, I am immensely grateful for the Chiangmai Provincial Administration Organisation and the Chiangmai Municipality's trust in choosing our Thai-made masks as part of their strategy to fight air pollution. Their dedication to protecting the community's health while also supporting the local economy and manufacturing sector is truly admirable. We are eager to extend this model of collaboration to other provinces, showcasing the quality and reliability of products made in Thailand.
Our experience with the Chiangmai government proves that when we come together, prioritising both health and local economic growth, we can achieve remarkable outcomes. We invite other provincial governments to join us in this endeavour, ensuring that our collective efforts in battling air pollution also bolster Thai manufacturing. Let's work together to protect our communities and strengthen our economy through strategic partnerships that highlight the best of what Thailand has to offer."
Dr. Hygiene is committed to improving safety and hygiene to protect people's health. As one of the main manufacturers with international standards in developing and producing masks, Dr. Hygiene has also been approved and supported for investment by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). The company has received certification for the production of face masks, with quality standards certified by Nelson Lab, USA, ISO9001:2015 by SGS, and N95 standard certification from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with the potential to produce more than 300,000 masks per day.
For both governmental entities and private enterprises, individuals, and organisations keen on utilising Dr. Hygiene products are encouraged to engage in enhancing healthcare provisions for themselves and their personnel.
Direct communication can be initiated by reaching out to Mrs. Watcharaporn Lin, serving as the Executive Director at Dr. Hygiene Medical Products Company Limited, via telephone at +66 61 272 8111.
