News feed：Substandard masks

[2021.01.06] 發表

【明報專訊】THE Consumer Council (消委會) tested 30 brands of face masks for their particle filtration efficiency (PFE) rate. A Vietnam brand named Perfetta has an average PFE of only 86%, failing to meet ASTM level two as claimed.

The council chief said people should pay attention to masks' packaging and labelling. Also, the Customs (海關) arrested a retail owner for selling surgical masks under another brand called Powecom. They found that the masks contain exceedingly high levels of bacteria.

Space tourism dream

VIRGIN Galactic's mission to send tourists into space failed after the motor engine of its SpaceShipTwo spacecraft couldn't be ignited. The company's space tourism dream, which had been expected to start its business this year, as well as its shares, was dealt a blow. Over 600 individuals, including Oscar Best Actor winner Leonardo DiCaprio, had booked a flight. There is still hope though, as it was just the first of the demo flights.

Craftsmanship matters

ON THE MAINLAND, the 1st ''National Craftsmanship Competition'' was held in Guangzhou, drawing in 2,557 contestants to participate in 86 events involving manufacturing, IT, transportation, the service industries, etc. Trendy events are eye-catching, such as the bakery race, during which contestants made COVID-themed pastries.

■Gear up

According to the passages on this page, circle the correct answers.

(1) Most of the masks in the market are substandard.

( True / False / Not given )

(2) Virgin Galactic's space tourism project failed its first test.

( True / False / Not given )

(3)The 1st ''National Craftsmanship Competition'' attracted overseas attention.

( True / False / Not given )

(Answers on next text)

■Glossary

packaging (n) 包裝

craftsmanship (n) 技藝