3D-printed snorkel mask adapter for failed N95 fit tests and personal protective equipment shortages

Abstract

Personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages persist amidst increasing COVID-19 caseloads. These shortages encouraged some to pursue 3D printing to produce stopgap N95 alternatives. The design presented is an adapter for a commercially available snorkel mask to serve as a full-face respirator, used in dire PPE shortages or in individuals who failed fit testing. Masks were fit tested at The University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, KS. The mask was fit tested on 22 individuals who previously failed fit testing, and all passed qualitative fit testing with the snorkel mask, adapter and viral filter apparatus. The authors endorse this design as a stopgap measure, proven to be effective in situations of dire PPE shortage or for individuals who have failed fit testing with conventional PPE.