Faced with the temporary closure to the public of its recently launched “Creation Nation” Maker Space, the Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation has taken the initiative this Spring of temporarily re-purposing its facility and equipment to help meet one of the critical challenges curing the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
By primarily making use of the space’s 3D printer, laser cutter and sander and with the help of a handful of volunteers the space has in effect been turned into a local manufacturing facility for lab-tested face shields for front-line workers.
To-date more than 400 face shields have been created, with more presently being made at a rate of about 40 per day. As they’re created, the shields are being offered to those on the front lines including women’s shelters, dentists and pharmacists. At the present rate, the supply is just able to keep up with demand despite limited promotion. As more learn of availability there is an expectation for a need to increase that production level in order to make sure shields end up in the hands of as many on the front lines as possible.
Brandon’s Summus Security and The Co-operators have helped fund efforts to-date. Additional contributors can help by sponsoring shields at a cost of $10 each or by contributing 3D printing equipment if available.
During normal times, Creation Nation offers members access to equipment including 3D printers, laser cutter, vinyl cutters, sublimation printer, heat press, sewing machines, bike repair stations, a CNC router and a full woodshop for a monthly fee. More on the facility and the face shield project can be learned at:
https://bnrc.ca/creation-nation-makerspace/
Video: Dirty T-Shirt Productions/Summus Security
Photo credit: Kevin Vint