DOVER, NH – April 27 th, 2020 – Many smaller local businesses have responded to the COVID-19 crisis by utilizing their resources to manufacture personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline first responders and healthcare professionals. As the number of COVID-19 cases increase across the Granite State, so does the need for PPE, especially for those in the healthcare field. To combat this shortage, many businesses have stepped up to supply two critically needed items: face shields and face masks.
Welch Fluorocarbon, a company located in Dover, NH, who specializes in the production of medical components, recently added a production line to manufacture disposable face shields. Used in addition with face masks, these face shields provide a more comprehensive form of protection, shielding not only the wearers’ mouth and nose, but their entire face. This higher level of protection is critical as transmission of the COVID-19 virus is still not fully understood.
Kevin Wiley, President and CEO at Welch Fluorocarbon stated, “It feels great knowing that we can take part in assembling a product that will help people in the medical and public service fields. We are in this all together. Helping the community is essential in times like these.”
Seth Welch, Co-owner and the designer of the face shields, described how Welch Fluorocarbon was able to step up to this challenge. He said, “The company had to quickly convert space in the plant to safely build the shields. This project demonstrates how a small company can come together to meet urgent community needs. Keeping a focus on healthcare professional’s safety aligns with Welch Fluorocarbon’s innovative spirit.”
On April 21st, the company learned that there was a need for face shields at Bellamy Fields, a local assisted living and hospice facility, located right in Dover. Knowing that seniors are at high risk for this disease, Kevin Wiley was able to hand deliver Welch Fluorocarbon Paladin Face Shields to their sister location, Watson Fields, in order to help protect the staff and residents at both locations. After the delivery, Kevin summarized, “The delivery of these Face Shields was a team effort and we may very well have helped save someone’s life. I’m proud to be part of this team!”
Welch Fluorocarbon’s Paladin Face Shields are available for purchase through Fluorolab.com, or can be ordered by contacting [email protected] or calling 603-742-7070.
