University experts find cure for nurses' face sores caused by wearing PPE masks at Milton Keynes Hospital

But experts from Cranfield University’s 3D printing lab are providing a solution - in the form of special adjustable connectors.

These allow the staff to easily change the fit of the mask and reduce the pressure on their skin.

The uni's 3D printers are churning out boxes full of the plastic connectors and sending them to Milton Keynes hospital.

Connor Hart, senior technician at C4D/3DPrint is leading the project.

He said: “We are pleased to be using our facilities to support NHS staff and key workers on the front line and to be a small part of the collective effort fighting Covid-19."

With special permission to open up the lab spaces on campus, the Cranfield team worked from a design supplied by the hospital to create two different-sized connectors.

“We have over 30 3D printers, including an FDM print farm, SLA, DLP and multi-jet printers,” said Connor. “So far, 500 connectors have been produced but we have capability to produce more than 5,000 a week - for as long as they are needed or until we run out of material.”

Susie Birchall, clinical procurement nurse at Milton Keynes University Hospital said: “Being in masks for 12 hours a day is creating problems for frontline staff in relation to skin irritation and sores.

"These simple items are currently invaluable to staff and are a fantastic way of easing the pressure they are currently facing. We’re very grateful for Cranfield University’s help and support.”

Local café Oso Coffee and Cake in Cranfield supported the effort by supplying food free of charge to the team at the University site while they created the connectors.

The project is another element of #CranfieldCommunity, a pan-University initiative highlighting the support staff and students are giving to each other and the wider community.