Santini, makers of cycling and triathlon technical apparel, has converted its production line to make protective face masks. The brand is based in Bergamo, which is in Lombardy — Italy’s epicentre of the outbreak.

According to Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), which spoke with Paola Santini, the company's marketing director, Santini began to explore making the masks when a new standard for protective devices was made available. Within days, the company had a prototype ready for examination by the Politecnico di Milano (Milan Polytechnic).

Ms Santini, who is sister of the CEO Monica and daughter of the founder Pietro, told UCI they worked closely with one of their suppliers, Sitip, which is another Bergamo-based company.

The prototype, according to Ms Santini, is reusable, sterilisable and washable up to 90-95 degrees with its integrity guaranteed for use up to ten times. Made with dense polyester fabric, the mask is treated with “Acqua Zero” (Zero Water) to be waterproof. They also have a double layer of the fabric, nose support and elastic bands that reach the back of the head and the ears.

The Santini website currently has a message informing consumers that orders received after March 25 will be processed from April 6.