SU Libraries' Woodall 3-D Prints Face Shields for Medical Professionals During COVID-19

SALISBURY, MD---With shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical workers, healthcare providers are looking at all options to remain safe.

Salisbury University technology librarian Chris Woodall thought SU Libraries’ 3-D printing technology and devices might be able to help, reaching out to Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) to volunteer his services. Anticipating potential shortages of PPE items, Woodall coordinated with PRMC staff to focus on face shields.

Working off open-source designs, Woodall printed the frame for face shields and made a pair of prototypes, adding additional pieces which could not be 3-D printed. The face shield would have met the needs of the medical providers but PRMC was able to supplement its supplies with a shipment of additional materials.

Woodall now is in discussions with other local healthcare facilities and first responders to see if there is a need for the items elsewhere and will be ready to print more if necessary.

“The rapid spread of this disease is causing shortages of many types of supplies throughout the world’s healthcare systems.” said Woodall. “If there is anything the MakerLab can do to increase the supplies available to our frontline medical professionals, I want to make sure that we do everything we can to help.”

With many school districts closed around the nation, the SU Alumni Association also is helping young students with art projects, providing Sammy the Sea Gull coloring pages.

The pages are available for download from the association's flickr account..

Are you or someone you know a member of the SU community who is helping in the battle against COVID-19? Send a message to Tim Brennan, assistant director of public relations, with details so we can share their story.