Around New England

Honeywell Ramping Up Mask Production In Rhode Island

March 23, 2020

One factory in Rhode Island is set to create many face masks amid the country’s shortage, and create jobs in the process. 

The Associated Press reports that Honeywell says it plans to hire 500 additional workers for its Smithfield, Rhode Island plant. They will be used to create millions of N95 disposable masks. These masks will then be delivered to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services so that they can be used by emergency workers during this coronavirus pandemic, the company says.

Typically, the factory in Smithfield is used to make eye protection products like face shields, safety goggles, and safety glasses.

“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,” said Darius Adamczyk, Honeywell chairman and chief executive officer, according to Yahoo Finance. “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.”