RC Publisher Jill Bloom virtually met with Duro-Last CEO Tom Saeli to discuss how the Michigan-based commercial roofing manufacturer is retooling to make much-needed masks and gowns for the medical industry.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, personal protection equipment including face masks are in short supply at hospitals across the country. As Saeli explains, a few Duro-Last engineers approached him with the idea, and since he’s on the board of one of leading medical centers in Southeast Michigan, it was easy to find out how that would make a difference. 

Utilizing expertise in manufacturing flexible PVC and fabrics, the team went from prototype to production to delivery in one week. Duro-Last is able to produce 1,000 masks and gowns a day right now at its Michigan facility, with plans to ramp up production.

View RC's coronavirus coverage page for more news and information.