Operation Protect
What is Operation Protect?
We’re urgently asking individuals and organizations to donate any spare personal protective equipment. This includes examination gloves, surgical masks, protective gowns, eye protection, hand sanitizer, and medical-grade disinfectant wipes.
SafeCare BC is working with BC’s Ministry of Health to collect this equipment. It will be added to the provincial supply, then distributed to hospitals and other care organizations, including long-term care, home care, community health support, and assisted living facilities.
Why are supplies needed?
COVID-19 has led to a severe shortage of protective equipment for health care workers. They need this equipment to protect themselves and provide safe, quality care. Without it, they’re at higher risk of injury or illness. These workers are on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic, and they need our support today.
** Thank You! **
We’re blown away at the support we’ve received for Operation Protect. Donations from individuals and organizations are coming in at a rapid pace. Thank you, all, for your generous donations!
Total Donors: 180
Units of Protective Equipment and Product donated: 152,000
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What supplies are needed?
- Surgical masks (approved by the FDA)
- Exam gloves
- Hand sanitizer (60% alcohol or higher)
- Medical-grade disinfection wipes
- Protective gowns
- Eye protection (glasses, goggles, and face shields)
- N95, N99, and N100 masks (approved by the FDA, NIOSH, or CSA)
- R95, R99, and R100 masks (approved by the FDA, NIOSH, or CSA)
- P95, P99, and P100 masks (approved by the FDA, NIOSH, or CSA)
- Elastomeric half- or full-face piece respirators (including filters)
- Powered air-purifying respirator (and accessories)
We can only accept unopened and unused items.
Not sure what the supplies look like or what’s accepted? Click here for pictures and more info.
Questions?
- Email us at info@safecarebc.ca
- Call us at 1-877-955-6565 (Operation Protect shares a line with Route 65.)
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Our Partners
Operation Protect is a group effort. Thank you to our partners who help make Operation Protect possible.
Frequently asked questions
In what cities are you accepting donations?
Right now, we’re operating in the Vancouver area. But we’re looking to expand into other cities around the province as soon as possible.
If you have supplies you’d like to to donate but you’re not in the Vancouver area, fill out the application, and we’ll work to get those supplies to health care workers.
Will you accept supplies that aren't listed?
No.
Right now, we’re looking only for the supplies we’ve listed on this website.
I have open but unused supplies. Will you accept them?
No.
All supplies must be unopened and unused. This is the best way we can ensure the health and safety of those using the equipment.
Can I donate by phone?
No.
All donations must come through the online form.
Where are your drop-off locations?
We have two locations: South Vancouver and Surrey.
For health, safety, security, and logistical reasons, we’re not publicly sharing the exact locations.
If you’ve pledged a donation using the online form and are able to drop it off, we’ll send you a follow-up email with further instructions.
Will you accept expired equipment?
Yes.
The Government of Canada recently announced that, in this time of need, expired equipment can be used. However, they must be unused and unopened.
We're thinking about producing our own hand sanitizer. Can you use that?
Yes.
To be accepted, recipes MUST adhere to the World Health Organization’s formula. Bottles must be properly labelled.
Note: this formula requires a higher alcohol content (75%) than approved commercial hand sanitizer (60%).
Click here for the WHO’s formula and for more information.
We make equipment using a 3D printer. Will you accept that?
No, not at this stage, but this may change. Please email info@safecarebc.ca with your name and the supplies you’re wanting to print, and we’ll keep your information on file.
