Out of isolation: designing reusable PPE gowns based on an understanding of healthcare workers’ lived experiences

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Townsend, K. ORCID: 0000-0003-2212-2511, Sterman, S., Salter, E. and Harrigan, K., 2022. Out of isolation: designing reusable PPE gowns based on an understanding of healthcare workers’ lived experiences. In: D. Lockton, S. Lenzi, P. Hekkert, A. Oak, J. Sádaba and P. LLoyd, eds., Proceedings of DRS2022: Bilbao, 25th June - 1st July, Bilbao, Spain. DRS Biennial Conference (56). University of Basque Country, Bilbao, Spain: Design Research Society. ISBN 9781912294572

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.21606/drs.2022.732

Abstract

The paper reports on an AHRC-funded project aimed at mitigating the personal and environmental impact of PPE isolation gowns, as worn by healthcare workers treating patients with COVID-19. The enquiry was devised in collaboration with NHS and industry partners and is informed by empirical investigations into procured gowns and the lived experiences the health professionals' wearing them. The development of an industry standard 'reusable gown system' requires negotiating various proximities: between safety and disease transmission; sustainability and medical waste; the needs of end users, regulation and cost; public and private stakeholders. The article contextualizes the research problem and methodology, incorporating survey, code sign and material methods employed to gain a better understanding of the issues associated with current gown design, fabrication and use. The study raises questions around how critical clothing items are produced, procured and disposed of, and the need for circular design and supply chain models.

Item Type:

Chapter in book

Alternative Title:

Out of isolation

Creators:

Townsend, K., Sterman, S., Salter, E. and Harrigan, K.

Publisher:

Design Research Society

Place of Publication:

University of Basque Country, Bilbao, Spain

Date:

25 June 2022