WSU’s Technical Services is providing protective shields for customer service locations to keep workers safe from contracting COVID-19.

“These are highly in demand right now and it’s going to be an important part of reopening the university,” said Technical Services Supervisor, Dave Savage.

Savage said the shields are made from clear acrylic sheets. Legs are attached to the material after it has been cut so it can be placed on desks or counters. Additionally, the shields can be made to hang from the ceiling.

He said Technical Services can only make about 10 shields per day, which limits who they can sell to because they have to prioritize certain areas at WSU. One inquiry he was unable to accept was from Zoe Coffee & Kitchen, which requested shields for its entire cafe.  

“The demand is just going to be overwhelming,” Savage said. “Since we’re an on-campus shop, we have to give our priority to [campus].”

He said protective shields are available to buy online from a variety of companies.

The standard sizes of the shields are 24 inches by 24 inches, 24 inches by 36 inches, and 30 inches by 36 inches, Savage said. Other sizes are available on request. Standing shields are $15 per square foot. Requests can be made on the Technical Services website or via email at [email protected].