Portsmouth IT worker uses 3D printer to make face masks for NHS workers

Ben Bissett, 40 from Hilsea, has a 3D printer in his home that he’s been using recreationally for the past five years.

But now that the coronavirus outbreak has forced the hand of the NHS in terms of personal protective equipment (PPE), Ben has jumped in to put his skills to use.

At the moment, he’s been able to churn out 70 face masks each day – which are then being sent up to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham.

The masks come from an Italian design which is being shared on open source, so anyone with a 3D printer can make them.

Ben said: ‘I recently started printing a 3D robot, but that’s all I’ve been doing with it.

‘Now all I’m doing is printing these face masks, which take 35 minutes each to make.

‘It’s been crazy, the printer has practically been going non-stop – but the NHS is going through these things fast, so we have to be on top of our game.’

The masks are taken to QA by a family friend who works at the hospital, he said.

Ben has heard anecdotally of the ‘huge need’ for PPE gear for NHS staff, already receiving photographs of staff wearing his creations.

‘It feels good to help out,’ he said.

‘We’ve seen this crisis unfold right across the world, and people with 3D printers have realised just how crucial they can be.

‘The way everyone has come together for things NHS staff desperately need is just amazing.’

Through donations, Ben has now got a second 3D printer up and running, doubling his output.

Now, he’s calling for others in the city to do what they can for the NHS.

He said: ‘I’m glad I can help by doing more than just staying indoors.

‘Seeing people in Portsmouth step up to do their bit makes me very proud to live in this city.’

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