Abstract: A blade removal device includes positionable hand protecting members which are movable to a position relative to a base portion for preventing injury to an operator during use of the blade removal device. A blade removal mechanism is configured in the blade removal device and is accessible through positioning of the hand protecting members. The blade removal mechanism defines a plurality of blade removal chambers disposed in communication with a blade receptacle area. Each chamber defines a blade disengaging mechanism configured to remove a blade from a surgical knife handle by inserting the blade and attached handle into the chamber and withdrawing the handle from the chamber with the blade being retained in the chamber. The blade removal device is operable for removing blades while mated with a storage section or separate from the storage section.

Abstract: A conformable face mask for health care workers is provided. The use of elastomeric materials applied under tension helps define a plurality of gathers which facilitate the donning and positioning of the mask. An elastomeric headband maintains a comfortable and efficient seal while a similar elastomeric chin strap helps provides a pouch-like enclosure for the wearer's chin. The substantially rectangular face mask includes a plurality of horizontal stays which are individually adjustable to create a three dimensional shaped mask which defines a spaced breathing area around the wearer's nose and mouth. Additional rigidity is provided by the selected melting of horizontal bands of the filter portion of the mask.

Abstract: An absorbent article is disclosed having a liquid pervious liner, a liquid-impermeable backing member and an absorbent position therebetween. The liner contains a plurality of perforations extending completely therethrough which are arranged in a central area and spaced away from the longitudinal side edges of the article. The article also contains a flow zone control layer having a first surface in contact with the perforated central area of the liner and a second surface in contact with the absorbent. The flow zone control layer facilitates dispersion of body fluid along the length thereof before allowing a substantial amount of the fluid to pass into the absorbent. The preferred flow zone material is a meltblown polymer and the preferred perforated cover is spunbonded polypropylene.