IAMAW District Lodge 70 Says Need For Medical Equipment Is Paramount

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, District Lodge 70, located in Wichita, Kansas is urging aircraft manufacturing companies in Wichita to shift their focus to production of medical equipment to help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a letter to the companies served by the district, IAMAW District Lodge 70 president Cornell Beard said that while the union completely understands the need for economic success, this is not a time to be distracted with production schedules and profit. "Rather, the foremost responsibility being placed at the door, should be protecting the people of this country, at any cost," he wrote.

"Therefore, IAMAW District Lodge 70 is requesting that all of the companies that have employees that we represent, to lead the way by enacting a complete and rapid shut - down for all manufacturing personnel, while a sanitation of the factories can happen. While sanitation is being performed, the company’s engineers can prepare for the immediate manufacturing and distribution of disposable face shields/splash guards, filter masks, and life-saving PPE to the medical community, postal workers, delivery personnel, and general public. This should be considered a matter of national security, and there is no time to waste.

"IAMAW District Lodge 70 considers nothing more urgent than saving the lives of the people who build your product while the coronavirus is spreading at an alarming rate, already compromising our economy, national defense and the American way of life.

"I implore you to do the right thing, join us in the battle to save lives."

(Source: IAMAW District Lodge 70)

FMI: www.d70iam.org