Supplies on Demand

In an effort to alleviate a severe shortage of personal protective equipment at Georgia hospitals combating COVID-19, Kennesaw State University staff members have produced 3D-printed face shields to be donated and distributed statewide.

Using just a 3D printer and laser cutter in the College of Architecture and Construction Management’s Digital Fabrication Lab with support from the College of the Arts, the team recently made an initial batch 145 face shields. The shields, typically used in medical settings along with surgical masks, help protect against body fluids that may cause infection. This week, the equipment is expected to arrive at Cartersville Medical Center, WellStar Cobb Hospital and the MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service. Through a material donation from local architectural firm YSM Design coordinated by alumnus Lee Burdett, the team will make an additional 4,200 shields for hospitals in need.

“We take pride in being a community-oriented institution, and I am delighted that our staff have joined together to support local medical workers at such a critical time,” said Andrew Payne, dean of the College of Architecture and Construction Management. “They have volunteered countless hours to see this come into fruition and have generated excellent results all while maintaining their primary role of serving our students throughout the current remote learning model.”

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