About the project
This research analysed the design and procurement of PPE (personal protective equipment) for the comfort and safety of healthcare workers. It identified a number of key issues relating to gown fabrication, length, fastenings, and intended wear that impeded safe use by healthcare workers, particularly women and women from ethnic minorities. It investigated limitations in the procurement processes, based on offshore production and lack of investment in UK or reusable models of production.
Key policy recommendations include:
- Design. Create a reusable gown system across multiple sizes to provide safe and comfortable PPE that respects cultural diversity.
- Procurement. Invest to create localised and experienced production.
- Create a local/national infrastructure of reusable PPE service providers.
- Shift policy towards reusable products, including the removal of plastic (PU) coatings.
Principal Investigator
Professor Katherine Townsend
(Nottingham Trent University)
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