DF Barnes is marking a significant milestone this morning in an effort to produce Personal Protective Equipment for local front-line workers in the health care system.

The company will produce its one-millionth mask this week.

When the pandemic struck last year, the call went out for extra PPE and Task Force NL was formed, gathering the efforts and expertise of the local business community to meet demand.

DF Barnes President Jason Fudge says helping out is what they do.

He says the company, established in 1932, has a long history of emergency response. “So when someone is looking for help,” says Fudge, “we’re there to put out a helping hand.”

Barnes will be joined this morning at 10:00 by Premier Andrew Furey and Eastern Health CEO Dave Diamond to view the local production of masks.