A Dorset manufacturer is maintaining production of portable fume and dust extraction units, filters and spares to businesses playing a key role in the fight against coronavirus.

They include companies in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, health care products, safety equipment and personal care items.

Poole-based BOFA International says its products allow such businesses to continue to operate as efficiently as possible.

It points out that without effective extraction, production lines could become contaminated with dust and particulate.

This would heighten the risk of manufacturing downtime just at the time when demand on key industry sectors has never been greater.

Tony Lockwood, Managing Director, pictured left, said: “As always, the safety of our people is our primary concern, but we also know that without our extraction systems, filters and spares, production lines in very important sectors could suffer disruption – and we need to help keep these vital supplies flowing.

“We have introduced new working practices for our manufacturing teams in line with government and World Health Organisation advice to ensure their safety while continuing to deliver vital products to key customers in the UK and overseas.

“Most of our office and field-based staff are now working remotely, but we are committed to maintaining the production of core components to support those industries central to the national and, indeed, global effort.”

Despite the changes, BOFA is currently managing to keep to normal lead times for orders for key sectors.

However, the company is monitoring the situation daily and says it will inform customers in the event of any potential disruption.

Mr Lockwood said: “These are challenging times for everyone, but I’d like to thank my colleagues at BOFA for responding in such a positive way in ensuring that we play our part in keeping vital supplies moving.”

BOFA International, now part of Donaldson Filtration Solutions, is a world leader in portable fume extraction and filtration.

The multiple Queen’s Award winner has been flying the flag for British manufacturing for more than 30 years.