Opioid drug abuse has been rising across the country for years, and with increasing contamination from fentanyl, a powerful and deadly substance, the impact is terrifying. More than 100,000 people died of drug overdoses between April 2020 and April 2021, with opioids accounting for approximately 75% of the deaths.
Workplaces that serve the general public are encouraged by public health officials in many communities to prepare for handling overdoses. Employees are often traumatized after witnessing people overdosing, and they may encounter people needing emergency assistance in coffee shops, libraries, and other public spaces.
Employers can take the following steps to address overdose emergencies and support employee health:
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Train employees on the signs of overdose and the proper use of the medication known as naloxone/Narcan to save the lives of people who have overdosed.
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Review Good Samaritan laws regarding the use of naloxone/Narcan by non-medical personnel in the state(s) of operation and seek legal advice. This link created by the National Conference of State Legislatures provides an initial overview.
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Provide Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or other counseling services to traumatized employees, who may also need help with personal health issues and those within their families.
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Purchase naloxone/Narcan to have in the workplace. Consider paying for the medications for employees who wish to carry them.
Tens of millions of Americans know someone with a prescription drug addiction, so training employees on how to access and use naloxone/Narcan may help them save the lives of people in their homes and workplaces.
Here are additional resources on the topics of overdoses and obtaining help for employees:
Contact Employers Council if you have any questions or need assistance with membership resources, such as workplace drug testing policies and services.
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