As Human Resources experts, we like to ensure that our clients and friends of small business remain up to date with new information affect your business.
In response to the opioid epidemic which is sweeping some communities, Ontario has created a new Health and Safety Obligation for businesses effective June 1st, 2023.
If your workplace is deemed at risk for an employee to have an opioid overdose you must have a Naloxone Kit on site.
What is an Opioid?
Opioids are drugs that are prescribed by a medical practitioner to treat pain, however they are also used recreationally and can be highly addictive. Some commonly used opioids include:
- morphine
- heroin
- oxycodone
- fentanyl
- codeine
- hydromorphone
Naloxone is a drug that can be administered intramuscularly (into a muscle) or through a nasal spray to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It is critical to understand this is only temporary until medical assistance arrives.
- There is a risk of a worker opioid overdose.
- There is a risk that the worker overdoses while in a workplace where they perform work for the employer.
- The risk is posed by a worker who performs work for the employer.
In December 2022 the Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program began providing support to employers by providing free naloxone training for up to two workers per workplace and/or one free nasal spray naloxone kit per workplace. See below the participating programs for more information.
For more information regarding this new regulation, how to administer Naloxone, liability and how to store the kit please click here.
The experts at ThryvX are here to ensure your business remains compliant. Please contact us at 416-473-5034 or info@thryvx.com if you require any assistance.
