Update
(April 7, 2020): Improved N95 "snap lock" design firmly keeps filter in place with no rubber band. Design "2020.17.3 [N95]" This is the one you want for N95 filters.

(April 6, 2020): Added STL Files for Circular Twist-On Snorkel to Pall 22mmOD respirator filter. Added initial thicker N95 compatible unit with snap lock to keep the lid in place.

The SnorkPPE was designed to provide a form of emergency PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) during the COVID-19 crisis. It’s especially designed for those on the front lines: our first responders and medical professionals. With limited supplies, I wanted to offer a fast, easy, and low-cost option with better protection than a homemade cloth mask. By using 1/4 the surgical mask material and a consumer snorkel mask, it doesn't put a strain on medical distribution.

SnorkPPE has been tested by a professional EMT. She noted: "I got really excited to test it and decided to try and max it out to really see what it can do. Ran for 5 minutes on a treadmill. No fogging, air flow is restricted less than a P100, but obviously more than an N95 mask. But I was pleasantly surprised with how easily I could breath, and it stayed cool so I didn't get overheated. I could breathe normally and not hyperventilate which helped me feel less fatigued and less hot. First impression was 100% amazing. Much better than wearing a mask and goggles or P100 and goggles."

All you need is a compatible snorkel mask and a standard 3-layer surgical mask.

IMPORTANT: This device is not approved by the FDA or OSHA. The files are provided AS IS due to the ongoing COVID-19 emergency. Please ensure it meets your needs before using the device. It has not gone through the traditional evaluation of a medical or protection device. If you are unsure, do not use it.

Please read the section labeled “Potential Issues” under Documentation before using the device.

The SnorkPPE was designed to provide an emergency PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) option during the COVID-19 crisis. The 3D part is designed for use with commonly available full-face snorkel masks. As of this writing (April 2020), these are still readily available. It is important to purchase a unit with a removable snorkel. It will not work with a folding snorkel without modifications.

Device Highlights

* Uses 1/4th the mask material. With supplies running low, one brand new mask becomes four.

* The air input is away from the patient, so any viral material ejected from a patient (such as during a cough or intubation) is less likely to hit the mask material. This should increase lifespan of the mask further.

* There is virtually no fogging on the interior of the mask.

* Possibly eliminates the need for a traditional surgical mask and eye wear, making it faster to wear with more complete coverage of the face.

* The mask expels a good amount of moisture and carbon dioxide from a check valve near the mouth, which should lead to a longer lifespan of the surgical mask material.

* The 3D print was especially designed for easy printing in roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. It requires no brim, supports, or post work. Simply print, remove from the bed and put into use.

* The unique larger “mouth” allows more air to enter the snorkel, reducing the amount of strain while breathing.

* The snorkel mask is designed for salt water and chlorine. So, it’s easy to wash with bleach or other disinfectants should not damage the material. Of course, use common sense and inspect the seal after every cleaning.

* The SnorkPPE adapter can be removed for cleaning independently.

* The surgical mask material can be removed and exchanged without having to remove the SnorkPPE from the snorkel mask.

* Most snorkel masks have three outputs where the snorkel attaches. Two side outputs are designed for carbon dioxide output, while the center is for air input. The SnorkPPE has internal walls to keep these three sections separate.

* Four mounting points on the Lid for optional shield or rubber bands or other future accessories.

How To Use

Prepare Snorkel Mask – Remove the snorkel from existing mask. It’s typically located in the top-center of the mask. There is a tab facing back you may need to lift gently to release it. Follow manufacturer instuctions.

Install SnorkPPE to Mask – Take the printed SnorkPPE and snap it into place. Make sure you place it in the correct direction, so the tab is facing the correct side. It may take some pressure to get it to seat properly and engage the tab/latch.

Check the Fit for Leaks – At this point, you may wish to test the fit and ensure it’s airtight. Place on the mask and adjust the straps according to the manufacturer directions. Cover the opening of the SnorkPPE and inhale to test the seal. Make sure you are comfortable with the level of suction required before the SnorkPPE or the snorkel mask.

Cut the Surgical Mask – Cut a piece of rectangular piece of mask approximately 70mm by 55mm. Prepare as many of these pieces as you need ahead of time and store in a safe location. A standard make can typically yield four pieces.

Install the Surgical Mask – The STL file comes with two pieces. First, the main SnorkPPE and second, a lid that holds the surgical mask in place. Place the cut rectangle of mask material over the opening of the SnorkPPE and rest the SnorkPPE Lid on top. Apply pressure along the edges until the lid snaps into place.

Important: The SnorkPPE Lid has a “lip” on one side. This lip should be on the top, or facing upwards when installing. If you face the lip downward, you can damage the mask or the Lid.

Inspect the Install – The surgical mask should be taut. There should be no tears. Check the edges to ensure the mask has complete coverage and there were no holes formed during the install.

Using Rubber Bands – You can use the four mounting points on the Lid to further secure the lid to the main unit. Small, thin rubber bands work best. There's also an optional "tighter lid" STL because surgical mask thickness does vary.

Potential Issues

Carbon Dioxide – Any full face snorkel mask has the potential for the buildup of carbon dioxide. I have used this for extended periods with no ill effect. Side effects of excessive carbon dioxide may include nausea, headache, or rapid breathing and heart rate. When using the SnorkPPE for an extended period of time, try to get to a safe area with fresh air and, using the proper precautions, occasionally air out the mask. Again, always use common sense.

The actual amount of potential for carbon dioxide buildup is based upon variables outside my control. For example, snorkel mask manufacturers, the type of surgical mask being used, and your own physiology or exertion levels. Never sleep in the SnorkPPE or any snorkel mask.

Accidental Filter Removal – In certain environments, there is the potential for the surgical mask to get knocked off. This is a concern with any mask, but since you can’t see and feel it, it’s important to be careful and pay attention to the effort of your breathing. Be prepared with a backup PPE. You can also use rubber bands to hold the filter in place.

Restricted Air Flow – You’re breathing through a mask with, hopefully, little to no leakage. That makes it more difficult to breathe. An air pump would help in several ways, including adding positive pressure, but they’re bulky and expensive and require power. Also note that different brands of surgical masks have different levels of flow. Some may not be suitable for this project.

One-Way Exhale Valve on Mask – The front of the snorkel mask has a silicone valve that allows some of your breath to exit, but no water to enter. We need to remember that this was designed for water penetration, not a spray of virus. One risk is that, immediately following a heavy exhale, a forceful virus spray can enter the mask before the one-way valve has time to close. Or, perhaps, the valve may not be filtering down to under 1 micron? When I check the seal, I don’t feel or hear any air entering, but it would need further testing.

Glasses – Unfortunately, you can’t wear traditional eyeglasses with a full face mask. The seal won’t allow it.

Audibility – When you’re wearing a full face mask, you can speak, but you have to speak loudly. Your voice is muffled. This could prove to be difficult when coordinating with your team or communicating with a patient.

It’s crucial that anyone using this solution understands and weighs the risks verses the rewards.