Project #2: Ear Savers / Mask Strap Holders - Design and Printing

Goal

To design, print, and deliver NIH-approved ear savers for district staff, as the COVID-19 pandemic mask mandate continues for schools.

Timeframe: May - June 2021

About the Design

The mask strap holder design ("Surgical Mask Tension Release Band for Ear Comfort & Extended Use") we have selected was originally designed by Lam Wei Mars and updated by Ken Lord on the online 3D printing exchange, Thingiverse. It was subsequently submitted by Davis Becker of the U.S. Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Innovation Ecosystem in response to medical PPE shortages, and approved by NIH for emergency medical use in March 2020.

Globally, grassroots efforts to 3D print PPE began in earnest with the spread of the pandemic and severe shortages of medical PPE. What became known as the "Surgical Strap remix" design was widely adopted due to its simplicity, and ease of printing/transport/assembly.

This design was successfully printed and donated to local and regional providers in Spring 2020 by Steinert High School's Innovation Lab and by the larger statewide 3D printing alliance, with many medical facilities making multiple/repeat requests for their frontline staff.

Caring for Your Ear Saver

Fit

Hold your ear saver comfortably behind your head (above a ponytail, or bun, if you wear one), and loop your mask straps around one set of rungs to adjust the fit and comfort. Your mask should remain fitted to your face.

Cleaning

Your ear saver is constructed of 3D printed PLA plastic. It can be gently cleaned on a daily basis with Dawn brand (or similar) dishwashing soap and warm (NOT hot) water.

Disinfection

To disinfect your ear saver, the CDC recommends 60% alcohol wipes or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol.

Storage

We recommend storing your clean, dry ear saver in a zip-lock sandwich bag. Do not leave your mask strap holder in a hot car, or in the sun.

Requesting a replacement ear saver

Ear savers will be replaced for HTSD staff, while supplies last. Please submit your request using this form.

Questions about your ear saver?

Please visit our PPE FAQ, or email rrogers@htsdnj.org.