As the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has unfolded, health care providers have sought help to source Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to enable health care workers to safely care for patients. At the same time, manufacturers have reached out to seek guidance on how they can retool or repurpose to contribute to the cause.

Ohioans’ actions are critical to “flattening the curve” and protecting our communities and health care workers. The situation is critical and urgent, and we are moving quickly.

In response to the COVID-19 challenges, The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA), Ohio Hospital Association (OHA), Ohio Manufacturing Extension Program (Ohio MEP), nursing homes and JobsOhio have joined forces through the Ohio Manufacturing Alliance to Fight COVID-19. This collaborative effort will engage manufacturers to see which companies have interest in repurposing their manufacturing operations to produce some of the most in-demand products in the fight against COVID-19, especially products for the health care industry.

The Ohio Manufacturing Alliance is guiding manufacturers to help them learn what types of equipment are most needed and how to adapt current products, operations and personnel to meet the need. Ohio MEP, with its partner organization MAGNET in a lead role, is providing engineering capabilities and technical support to make PPE alternatives when possible. OMA is managing outreach to manufacturers, and OHA and nursing homes are providing insights on the products most needed. JobsOhio is providing regional support and financial assistance, where appropriate, to accelerate production.

Visit www.RepurposingProject.com to learn about the needs and how manufacturers can help.