The federation of trade unions of Chongchuan district, Nantong, Jiangsu province, established a support group to organize supplies of protective materials during the fight against the novel coronavirus. It recently purchased and gave out 200 infrared thermometers to local communities and enterprises within 11 hours.

To find a thermometer supplier, the support group contacted seven medical equipment companies but they did not have the right sort of thermometers.

A medical equipment company in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu province, which was the eighth company contacted by the group, finally sent a response on Feb 13 that it could provide 200 infrared thermometers given the district's frequent calls.

Accordingly, the suppliers had to obtain a permit from the government, and the federation of trade unions had to pay by electronic transfer and then organize for police cars or ambulances to pick up the goods.

The federation reported the situation to the local bureau of finance and was informed that they could pay the money first and the procedures could be followed at a later date.

After contact with the local government and the public security bureau, transport vehicles were prepared and traffic permits were issued at noon.

Vehicles carrying 200 infrared thermometers returned to the district at about 8:30 pm. Local communities and enterprises received the thermometers soon after to ensure better prevention of the epidemic.

The federation of trade unions of Chongchuan district purchases 200 infrared thermometers and sends them to local communities and enterprises within 11 hours. [Photo/ntfabu.com]