Stirling University join Larbert High's ever growing PPE production line

A local high school’s amazing efforts to produce vital life saving equipment are now getting a boost from a university.
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For the last couple of weeks classrooms in Larbert High School have been converted into a DIY production line and manufacturing protective face shields using laser cutters and 3D printers for use by care staff throughout the area.

Now the University of Stirling has gifted two 3D printers – and loaned another two – to the school, as well as 20 rolls of plastic filament – the raw material for the protective visors.

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More than 2500 face shields have now been created and distributed by the makeshift manufacturing team – which also includes other high schools in the area and Forth Valley College so far.

Stirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production lineStirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production line
Stirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production line

Rebecca Elliott, Larbert High’s design and technology teacher, is leading the project along with colleagues Stefan Slater and Mhairi McAinsh.

She said: “Since this began, we have engaged a wide range of stakeholders and other local institutions to join in the community effort – and the response we have received has been amazing. The feedback from health professionals has been overwhelmingly positive, with people telling us that staff are feeling much safer in the workplace.

“The University of Stirling’s donation will help us to increase capability and production quantity – we are thankful for this donation. The equipment is currently being used for face visors, however, this could lead to further PPE initiatives for hospitals and other healthcare settings.”

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One of those to benefit from the Larbert effort is pharmacist Jonathan Burton, who runs the Right Medicine Pharmacy branch on Stirling University campus.

Stirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production lineStirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production line
Stirling University has donated two 3D printers and loaned two more to help Larbert High School's PPE production line

He said: “Pharmacies are on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic and it’s vital that our staff – like those working in our hospitals – have PPE to protect themselves from risk.

“We heard that Larbert High had started to produce this equipment – so we put in an order. The masks are good quality and they will provide our staff with important protection in their interactions with patients.

“We are hugely grateful to the staff at the school for helping front line workers in the battle against COVID-19 – and it’s great to hear the University has also thrown its support behind the initiative with the donation of 3D printers.”

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Stirling University’s 3D printers are normally located in the library and are used by both staff and students for a range of projects.

On hearing of the Larbert High initiative, Professor Leigh Sparks, deputy principal, and Richard Aird, head of customer service, contacted the school to offer the University’s devices.

Professor Sparks said: “This is a challenging time for everyone, however, it is great to see communities come together to help one another through this crisis. At the University of Stirling, we are proud of our ethos that encourages staff, students and alumni to make a difference – and we are delighted to see the same values run strong across Forth Valley.

“The phenomenal efforts of staff at Larbert High in helping to protect our front line workers is commendable – and we are pleased to be able to support this important work through the donation of 3D printers and filament.

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“We wish the team all the best as their initiative continues.”

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