The Pure Air PPE shirt, with integrated mask
A new and creative form of personal protective equipment (PPE) has been designed by South African entrepreneur, Andrew King.
Owner of M&K Before Ink tattoo shop based in Edenvale, Gauteng, King explains that the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the nation-wide lockdown were potentially catastrophic for his business and for his employees. He quickly devised an idea to use the crisis to his advantage and developed the concept of an all-in-one shirt and mask.
The shirt is designed to be a user-friendly, comfortable and trendy from of PPE.
The Pure Air PPE medium-weight cotton top can be worn as an outer garment or as a vest. The neck of the garment can be pulled up over the mouth and face to act as a mask, providing protection against droplets or airborne particles. The mask can be dropped back down to the chest when not required, reducing the hindrance of a loose mask or a mask hanging around the wearer’s neck.
In addition, an ISO14664-certified filter can be inserted into the neck, offering even greater protection against droplet spread of viruses or bacteria.
Designed and currently manufactured in South Africa the Pure Air protective shirts are said to be an international first. Sizes range from ages 4 years and up and can be ordered online.