India's PPE industry has grown to an estimated Rs 10,000 crore since the past few months

We spoke to Hemant Sapra, president, Safety Appliances Manufacturers Association (SAMA) to understand how the pandemic has transformed the focus on safety, key priorities of SAMA in the year 2021, new products or innovations in safety products and services that are expected in the near future, and how SAMA is closely working with safety heads across India in promoting occupational safety and health awareness across industries.

Interviewed by Adeesh Sharma

1. As a safety products manufacturer, how do you think the pandemic has transformed the focus on safety?

PPE or Personal Protective Equipment that was earlier cited only by industry experts and safety officers has casually found its way in everyday conversation of the common man. And it is not just valid for India but every other country around the world. The Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact lives of millions globally. This ongoing battle with the pandemic has compelled the Government to take significant steps to curtail the deadly spread of the virus.