Local business producing life-saving facemasks using 3D printer

Gary Thompson, Managing Director of Jag Design (4M) Ltd in Gateshead, has so far produced 50 visors for a local surgery and Northumberland Police.  

The shortage of protective equipment across the region led him to want to help protect frontline workers from Covid-19. 

Gary said: "I joined a LinkedIn group encouraging companies to work together to provide vital PPE for key services as I wanted to help during the outbreak. I was sent the design files and got to work.  

"I think it's important we all utilise our skills and facilities to help protect NHS staff and key workers on the frontline during our country's greatest crisis in a generation. I have my part to play in helping those who need it most." 

He explained: "It takes between two to four hours to make a visor using a 3D printer. I'm producing around five facemasks a day using one 3D printer. I'm waiting on another printer arriving to produce double that amount and support more health workers."  

Gary has also produced four new prototype masks with a new antibacterial material which is being tested at the moment.     

Cllr Catherine Donovan, Deputy Leader of Gateshead Council said: "Gary is doing an amazing job and playing a vital role in the fight to protect key workers against coronavirus. We're very grateful.  

"If you're a business in Gateshead that has any protective masks in stock or you can manufacture masks quickly please get in touch. There's an agreed specification for the design of PPE masks that we can share with you." 

Jag Design (4M) Ltd was founded in early 2016 and creates concepts and engineered solutions for a range of sectors. 

For more information contact alexcook@gateshead.gov.uk