STATEHOUSE (May 21, 2020) – Local small businesses and nonprofits can now utilize the state's new online marketplace to request personal protective equipment, according to local lawmakers.
State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) said as businesses resume operations, those unable to source and procure PPE on their own can go online to backontrack.in.gov/ppemarketplace.htm to order masks, face shields and hand sanitizer. While the first round of available PPE has been reached, small businesses can still place orders online. The marketplace anticipates being able to ship more protective gear in the coming weeks.
"Getting Indiana's economy back up and running is paramount to recovery, but it must be done carefully," Carbaugh said. "Workforce safety must be taken seriously to sustain this effort, but with PPE shortages that can be difficult."
According to State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne), the Indiana Economic Development Corp. launched the Small Business PPE Marketplace to serve as a secondary source for ordering Hoosier-made supplies. Currently, there is no charge but that could change depending on multiple factors.
"Organizations needing PPE to re-open should take advantage of this program if unable to secure these resources on their own," Heine said. "PPE resources may be backed up at this time, and we hope this will provide another avenue for small businesses to get what they need to help keep their employees and customers safe."
State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) said businesses must be registered in Indiana with the Secretary of State's Office, employ less than 150 people, and require PPE to reopen and comply with workplace safety requirements. Examples of eligible businesses include restaurants, retail sales, personal services and office environments.
"There are different levels of allocations for businesses employing up to 150 people to ensure as many employers across the state can receive supplies," Morris said. "Connecting employers with the resources they need to open up again is just one more way to lend help as we enter into this recovery period."
According to the IEDC, all requests will be evaluated and fulfilled based on work environment risk profile, stock availability and the number of outstanding requests. At times, partial or delayed fulfillment of requests may occur.
To learn more, visit backontrack.in.gov/ppemarketplace.htm.
Additionally, the Indiana Manufacturers Association started an online supply listing where Hoosier companies can order PPE for employees as they begin reopening. Those producing personal protective equipment can also be listed on the database. Visit www.indianamfg.com for more information.
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State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 81, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 84, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
