The provincial government has announced a new program that will provide naloxone kits to workplaces.
Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, announced that the province will begin providing free naloxone kits, and overdose prevention training, to workplaces in 2023, with the goal of having a naloxone kit in all “at-risk” workplaces by June of 2023. In 2021, 2,819 people died as a result of an overdose in Ontario which was the highest number on record, with 30 percent of workplace overdoses occurring in the construction industry. Bars and nightclubs also saw increases in opioid usage and accidental overdose deaths.
The government says for up to two years, they will provide free nasal spray naloxone kits and training for staff to businesses at risk of opioid overdoses through the Workplace Naloxone Program.
“Ontario, like the rest of Canada, is in the middle of an opioid epidemic made worse by a toxic supply of recreational street drugs,” said Minister McNaughton. “That’s why our government is the first in North America to require naloxone kits be accessible in at-risk workplaces by June 1, 2023, to raise awareness for those struggling with addition, reduce stigma and save lives.”
“Our new Workplace Naloxone Program, as part of our Narcotic Transition Services, will save lives,” added Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Everyone in Ontario deserves access to these kits, and this innovative program will bring a new level of safety to our province’s workplaces.”
Businesses can determine if they are eligible for the program and find additional information on accessing naloxone kits and training at Ontario.ca/workplacenaloxone.
