Honeywell has announced that it will immediately expand its manufacturing operations in Smithfield, Rhode Island, to produce N95 face masks in support of the U.S. government's response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the company announced on Monday.
"Our Rhode Island facility already produces industry-leading safety gear and soon will play a critical role in supplying the Strategic National Stockpile with N95 masks," said Darius Adamczyk, Honeywell chairman and chief executive officer.
Honeywell has projected that the addition of the new mask production line in Smithfield will create at least 500 new jobs. The company will begin recruiting, hiring and training manufacturing workers immediately.
The N95 face masks will be delivered to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to contribute to the American stockpile for use to support health, safety and emergency response workers. Honeywell's production expansion will support additional American businesses that are part of the supply chain, including industrial equipment providers and raw materials suppliers.
The company has also collaborated with state and local officials to ramp up production efforts and support recruiting and training for workers. Honeywell's Smithfield factory was established in 1980 to produce UVEX-branded eye protection products, which include safety glasses, safety goggles and protective face shields.
Honeywell will utilize its intelligent safety solutions and personal protective equipment to help organizations keep their workers safe and healthy on the job. The company's offerings additionally include hazardous gas detectors, safety software solutions and personal protective equipment such as gloves, protective eyewear, respiratory protection, safety suits, hard hats and boots.
"We are honored to support the U.S. government's efforts to protect Americans with personal protective equipment made right here in the United States," added Adamczyk.
About Honeywell
Honeywell is a Fortune 100 technology company that delivers industry-specific solutions that include aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings and industry; and performance materials globally. Our technologies help aircraft, buildings, manufacturing plants, supply chains, and workers become more connected to make our world smarter, safer, and more sustainable.
