Revolutionizing Safety: Carlos Schreib's Innovative Full Face Gas Mask

ESPIRE: A Redefined Approach to Respiratory Protection

Full face gas masks have remained largely unchanged for decades, with their component arrangement consisting of a small visor, an inner mask, and an outer mask to prevent exhaled air from fogging the visor. Both the filter and the outlet valve are always located at the bottom of the mask. However, Schreib's research with professional painters and varnishers revealed a widespread dislike for these traditional gas masks, often due to their negative connotations and uncomfortable design. This dissatisfaction served as the inspiration for ESPIRE.

ESPIRE's unique design moves the filter to the top of the mask, enabling a fully transparent mouth section. This new arrangement guides the airflow in a linear stream from the top of the mask to the outlet valve located at the chin. A separator between the viewing and mouth area ensures fog-free vision. This not only optimizes the airflow but also completely changes the aesthetics and archetype of a respirator, drastically increasing communication ability.

The mask is made from EPDM (Rubber) Material for the grey flexible parts to ensure a tight fit on a variety of faces. The polycarbonate visor provides clear vision that can be easily cleaned and doesn't break. The mask measures 300 mm x 300 mm x 300 mm.

ESPIRE's design also focuses on easy usability. Unlike traditional masks with many straps that need to be adjusted each time, ESPIRE uses a single but wide strap that only needs to be adjusted once. After that, the flexible grey material can be stretched and then the whole mask is pulled over the head and face. The filter exchange is also improved, as it can be easily changed with just two fingers. The flexible material around the filter bends into the opening and seals it, while the filter is being inserted. No screws or anything is needed for its fixation.

The project started in October 2014 in Berlin and was finished at the end of February 2016 with a total duration of about 3.5 months. The design process included many interviews with professional users of gas masks and analysis of their behavior. Many users avoid using them whilst working, which is a real health risk. The aversion comes from the small viewing area, the bulkiness that causes strain after long use, and the poor usability when adjusting the unwieldy straps.

ESPIRE's innovative design was recognized with a Silver A' Safety Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.