Unified Packaging received a special request from a client for a large school district. The request was to have a unique Face Shield-Mask Hybrid PPE item manufactured for their students. The use of traditional face masks is critical to stopping the spread of COVID-19, however, they create some unique challenges for anyone who works with the deaf, hard-of-hearing, and those who needs to read lips or see visual cues. The solution was to make use of an original open source design which was intended to meet two necessary goals; make communication easier and to provide a greater sense of human connection, both of which are crucial when working with differently-abled persons. We incorporated elements of our current face shield with their design and decided to call our version, the Unified Full Face Protection Shield.
The Unified Full Face Protection Shield is most useful in situations where it is vital to have the face visible such as language instruction, speech therapy, situations where lipreading is necessary and working with children or adults where expression is vital. It’s also quite useful for performing arts instruction, recitals, drama classes and acting performances.
• 12 pt. RPET clear shield
• 35 pt. Polyethylene Brow Strip
• Wide Elastic Band
• Thick Polyurethane Forehead Foam
• Permanent Bond Adhesive
• 2 Layers of 100% Cotton
• Nylon Drawstring
• Polyester Grosgrain Binding
• Plastic Squeeze to Release Barrel
• Youth: Purple, Emerald Green, Mellow Yellow, Ocean Blue, Red, Turquoise
• Adult: Ocean Blue, Turquoise, Emerald Green
The Challenge for Unified Packaging – Rivets vs Adhesive
When we first began the manufacturing process, we naturally utilized elements our current face shield design. When choosing a face shield or mask it is wise to always consider the pros and cons of each designs specifications. We manufacture our standard face shields using rivets to secure the headband configuration together for longevity because we found that with repeated cleaning some adhesives have the potential to break down over time. Since this particular order was primarily for children, some who were differently-abled and prone to falls, we needed to develop a safer, softer version for our manufacturing process. What we ended with was to secure the shields colorful polyethylene outer band, the clear RPET plastic, and its foam headband with a permanent bond adhesive, this makes the shield’s band configuration softer with no danger of impact from the metal rivet.
In Conclusion:
The need for PPE outside of clinics, hospitals and the dentist office has never been more relevant during this time of Covid-19. In many ways this pandemic has created a challenge that has brought creative minds together. We are all working to create safer environments for education, work, and play alike.
If you are interested in this unique Face Shield-Mask Hybrid design, or as we call it the Unified Full Face Protection Shield, we are currently offering this product for sale. Please call 303-733-1000 or email info@unifiedpackaging.com to receive more details on how to place your order.
Thank you and stay safe out there.