The first protoype of the PeRSo, a PPE respirator

Base unit alpha, the first prototype PeRSo (“Personal Respirator Southampton”) powered air purifying respirator unit, created as a proof-of-concept to demonstrate to NHS staff, made from X Life waistband, made by Karrimor, with one piece 3D printed connector, blower (SUNON fan), laser cut filter housing, HEPA filter removed from a domestic dehumidifier (Meaco), breathing tube from a domestic spare part, domestic retail battery pack, and version 6 of the hood, made from Vent3 light by Cromar Building Products and polycarbonate visor, includes browguard with 3D printed diffuser, intended for healthcare workers treating patients with COVID-19, collaboratively developed by the University of Southampton, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and the National Institute for Health Research Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, England, March 2020.

The PeRSo started as a conversation between University of Southampton colleagues, Paul Elkington, a professor of respiratory medicine and Hywel Morgan, a professor of bioelectronics. Bringing together a team from across the University of Southampton, their first prototype went from concept to reality in a week. Readily available materials such as a running waistband, a fan, a filter from a dehumidifier, batteries and a hood made from a waterproof roofing covering were assembled to create the device. This second, refined, prototype passed its tests and presented at a University Hospital Southampton meeting to decide whether to commit to developing PeRSo for widespread deployment. 18 months later 20,000 devices are in use across 20 NHS Trusts.

During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Personal Protect Equipment (PPE) was the only way for healthcare workers to protect themselves. A shortage and some concerns over quality of PPE dominated media headlines. The Southampton team developed a type of powered air purifying respirator (PAPR). A battery-operated fan circulates air, passing it through an inbuilt filter. This cleaner air is delivered to the user through a flexible tube into a hood. The hood also protects the eyes.

During the first wave, no member of staff at University Hospital Southampton wearing a PeRSo contracted COVID-19. Many members of staff commented that verbal communication and reading facial expressions was easier. The PeRSo was comfortable to wear over long periods of time and they felt safer.

The prototype design has been freely shared globally and many prototypes were sent to where they were most needed. As the PeRSo is resuable and cleanable, it is hoped that it will be a more sustainable solution to single use items. The Royal Academy of Engineering awarded the University of Southampton team with a President’s Special Award for Pandemic Service in 2020. Paul Elkington and Hywel Morgan both received an MBE for their contribution.