FS: Face mask to help with COVID

[RNajarian]

Originally Posted by Harpo

Any mask even if it is untested/certified has to be better than no mask at all.

Actually that is not true. I teach this at the collegiate level. Most masks you see people wearing are ineffective for COVID-19 and if they were would only be effective for 20-30 minutes. Hence why we tell students to change their masks between EVERY patient. Wearing a moist warm mask for a long period of time isn’t particularly a good idea.

https://www.menshealth.com/health/a31224056/make-your-own-medical-mask/



From the article . . .

“ What's more, the fabric medical mask shown in many of the DIY instructional guides isn't even the type that's been proven effective, according to the CDC.

The type of mask that is effective for drastically reducing exposure to airborne particles is called a N-95 respirator, which needs to fit properly to your face.

Without a sealed fit, even the effect N-95 respirator, much like homemade medical masks, may actually increase your risk of infection.

In short, do not turn to DIY medical masks in a shortage—or ever.. . . “

[DonDavis]

What is your plan for sterilization prior to use?

[CaliperCreations]

Najarian,

I agree with you but right now hospitals are only releasing 1 mask per physician/pa a day. Washing those is practically impossible. The mask we are designing is reusable. The filter can be replaced easily. The mask can be sterilized with gas or heat. Prior to release each mask is tanked in isopropyl alcohol for 20 minutes. So right now what we are doing will definitely be more effective than the current options. Thank you Dymitri for that message. We are pretty much selling these masks at cost and working with our suppliers to try and obtain the raw materials as a donation or reduced cost which will be passed on to anyone who buys the mask. This is by no means a way to cash in on this epidemic.

[Pazuzu]

Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, why not lend your production line to a group who already has started this process and has a production flow into hospitals established? There are groups that started this a few weeks ago, and therefore have the details worked out, but still need more physical production capability.

Just as an example, here is a group here in Houston that I know personally, and they would probably love to take THEIR approved designs and toss them on YOUR prototyping equipment to supplement what they are doing in house.

https://www.txrxlabs.org/post/we-need-your-help-making-face-shields-and-masks-for-houston-hospitals
https://www.txrxlabs.org/post/ppe-production-faq
There's probably some maker group/hacker group/prototyping group near you doing the same.