Toronto, Ontario — The first Ontario-made masks are ready for use, thanks to auto parts manufacturer Woodbridge Group.
The Woodbridge Group, which manufactures foam for several industries, including the cushion for many automotive seats, has retooled its Vaughan, Ont. facility to produce masks for the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
Premier Doug Ford was at the facility on Tuesday morning to help pack up the first shipment of supplies.
“This is what the workshop of Canada looks like. Once we get Ontario’s manufacturing powerhouse going it’s a machine that can’t be stopped,” said Ford.
According to the Woodbridge Group, the respirator masks have the same pathogen-blocking qualities of the N95 masks that are not produced in Canada but imported from the United States.
While the masks still require certification before distribution on the front lines, Ford said Health Canada has approved the Woodbridge Group’s plans to start production.
“These masks will be made here in the millions,” said Ford during a media update later in the day.
