908 Devices, a pioneer of purpose-built analytical devices for chemical and biomolecular analysis, were honored today to host Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker for a tour of their new corporate headquarters. Fueled by expanding R&D and increased manufacturing needs, 908 Devices relocated to the Pappas Commerce Center at the heart of Boston’s Seaport District in August of this year. The new 37,500 square foot facility doubled the company’s footprint, enabling a ramp up in development and production of their Life Science and Field Forensic product lines. This includes the MX908, a trace detection device used by local law enforcement and first responders in their efforts to combat the current opioid crisis in Massachusetts communities.
After taking office in January 2015, Governor Baker was confronted with a devastating opioid and heroin epidemic and immediately prioritized funds to fight the crisis. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is the newest and deadliest player with a potency 50 times higher than heroin and 100 times higher than morphine. It’s often crudely cut into street drugs like heroin, cocaine and ecstasy (MDMA), often without the user’s knowledge, and even small amounts can be lethal. The troubling increase in fentanyl-related deaths are 1st, 2nd or 3rd time recreational users ¾ not just addicts. Fentanyl also poses a severe hazard to first responders and civilians alike as accidental contact or inhalation leads to rapid and profound adverse health effects within minutes of exposure.
“While there is still much work left to do, our administration has partnered with stakeholders in government, healthcare and law enforcement to make progress fighting the opioid epidemic,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Innovative companies like 908 Devices are playing a pivotal role in aiding our collective mission to root out fentanyl and end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts.”
“Using a simple swab test, our MX908 rapidly detects trace amounts of unknown substances at a scene even when they aren’t visible to the eye. This includes fentanyl and over 2000 of its analogs, where immediate confirmation is critical,” said Dr. Kevin J. Knopp, CEO & Co-founder of 908 Devices. “We are committed to supporting our customers across law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and other federal and commercial organizations all working to contain this crisis and keep fentanyl and fentanyl-laced counterfeit pharmaceuticals out of circulation.”