Scientists from Cardiff University and the University of Southampton have joined forces to create the perfect fitting face mask, helping to protect frontline workers at the heart of the coronavirus pandemic.
The team are using state-of-the-art computer software and MRI facial scans to precisely determine how respiratory protective equipment (RPE) interacts with a range of face shapes and sizes.
At present face masks are typically designed for a white male workforce and can therefore lead to overtightening to compensate for a poor fit, resulting in soft tissue injuries and an increased risk of infection.
Working with UK manufacturers, the team hope to develop design templates for new masks as well as standard test methods to evaluate the risk of facial injury.
They are also developing intelligent fitting software in the form of a free smartphone app that will enable a user to select the best fitting mask for them.
"Correctly fitting RPE is critical, with any mask leakage presenting a risk of aerosol transmission of COVID-19," said Professor Sam Evans from Cardiff University's School of Engineering.
