Development of a PPE visor for female healthcare workers

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) has increased dramatically. However, the lack of PPE designed specifically for women is leaving many without adequate protection, as current “universal” solutions fail to address female healthcare workers’ varied needs. Instead, current solutions present users with a host of problems, including discomfort, hindrance, incompatibility with other wearable items, and adjustment difficulties. This paper explores and reflects upon the design thinking approach used to develop a PPE visor for female healthcare workers while following a user-centred design approach/methodology.