In Tampa, Florida, paint and coatings company Sun Coatings has announced via emailed press release that it has repurposed part of its 90,000-square-foot plant in order to manufacture hand sanitizer amidst the shortage experienced by global pandemic, COVID-19.

The area was reportedly repurposed using FDA-approved guidance procedures by the company’s chemists and plant personnel.

“Having the facilities, staff and access to raw materials, we saw the manufacturing of hand sanitizer as the most appropriate way to benefit our community,” said Michael Hyer, Sun Coatings Chief Executive Officer.

“Through this initiative, we’ve been able to donate to the Tampa Police Department, Tampa Fire Rescue, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, MacDill Air Force Base, Moffitt Cancer Center and more. Tampa Bay is our home and we’re grateful for another opportunity to contribute.” 

According to the release, during the first week of production, Sun Coatings was able to donate 350 gallons of hand sanitizer.

In adding sanitizer to its collection of construction adhesives, clear and white latex coatings, and silicone coatings, the company intends to increase production to accommodate hand sanitizer needs in the community. Last week, Sun Coatings began stocking hand sanitizer to sell to the general public.

View all of PaintSquare Daily News' coverage on COVID-19, here.