Hats off to the 40 plus Braskem employees that sacrificed the last month of their lives to live on – site at the Marcus Hook production plant working round the clock to boost polypropylene production, a key material in N95 mask, medical gown, and other productive gear manufacturing.
According to a CNN article, Braskem set up a ‘live in’ rotation of 12 hour shifts. Employees were rewarded with increased wages, provided beds, and kitchen and internet access. Braskem employees themselves expressed immense gratitude and a ‘just doing my part’ mentality that deserves praise. Joe Boyce, the shift supervisor, spoke to the opportunity: “We’re truly honored to be able to give back and support people we will never meet in some way. All the first responders, all the people on the front lines, we thank you. That’s what makes our job easy to do.”
It goes without saying, but watching our private industry step up to help battle the ongoing pandemic is something all Pennsylvanians should be proud of.
Moreover, Braskem is helping spotlight the importance of Pennsylvania’s natural resources to our everyday lives. These operations are especially valuable now, and ideological differences should be put aside for the time being as we collectively take on the COVID pandemic.
Lastly, Braskem also relies on a healthy supply chain of raw materials that requires the coordination of drillers in Western Pennsylvania and a robust delivery network of pipelines to make this possible. Past energy infrastructure buildout has readied the state for this moment.
The Pennsylvania Energy Infrastructure Alliance is proud to see industry members step up and take charge during these difficult times. Thank you to Braskem and all involved for your efforts here.