Honeywell recently announced that it will 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 anticipates the addition of the new mask production line in Smithfield will create at least 500 new jobs. Honeywell will begin recruiting, hiring and training manufacturing workers immediately.
“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. “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.”
The N95 face masks will be delivered to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for use by health, safety and emergency response workers.
Honeywell’s production expansion will also support additional American businesses that are part of the supply chain, including industrial equipment providers and raw materials suppliers. The company will be collaborating with state and local officials to ramp up production efforts and support recruiting and training for workers.
Established in 1980, Honeywell’s Smithfield factory produces UVEX-branded eye protection products, which include safety glasses, safety goggles and protective face shields.
For more information, visit www.honeywell.com.
