A wristband which alerts people wearing it when they touch their face has been launched by a firm from Kent.

The product, launched by Dartford-based Texcel Technology, works by triggering a sensor worn around the neck which detects when someone raises their hand to their face.

The company says Protactus, which works off new digital technology, has been developed to help remind people about preventing harmful bacteria coming into contact with them.

By wearing the wrist straps and the neck device, people are warned when they bring their hand close to their face with an audible alarm.

Studies show people touch their faces about 16 times an hour and with the dangers presented by the harmful coronavirus bacteria, the company hopes it will prove a handy tool to counter the spread of the germs.

Hugh-Peter Kelly, an entrepreneur and business owner, came up with the device and has been working with Texcel to bring it into production.

Peter Shawyer, the company's commerical director, said: "In the current global pandemic environment, that means during a typical day that’s 256 opportunities for someone to spread harmful bacteria such as the coronavirus.

"There are many applications where this device could help to dramatically reduce the spread of harmful micro-organisms.

"But this product isn’t just confined to the current Covid-19 crisis.

"It can also be used to help people change habits and behaviours, improve their self-hygiene and wellbeing.

"We have a fantastic product and are really looking forward to ramping up production as business and consumers see the value of this innovation."

Patents for the technology behind the device have now been filed.

Texcel was founded in 1976 and is based at Parkside Works in Thames Road, Crayford.

It specialises in designing and making electronics for various industries including the medical profession, military, marine and underwater technologies.

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