CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 22, 2019 -- Honeywell ( NYSE: HON ) today 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).

Honeywell is ramping up operations to produce millions of N95 disposable respirators to help support the need for critical safety equipment.

“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.”

Honeywell anticipates 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 Massachusetts-based companies SencorpWhite and JR Plastics. These industrial equipment providers will supply some of the manufacturing equipment for the Smithfield factory operations.

Honeywell’s Smithfield factory was established in 1980 and produces UVEX-branded eye protection products, which include safety glasses, safety goggles and protective face shields.