Washington, DC – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently announced that the agency has approved Naloxone Nasal Spray for over-the-counter use. Naloxone is a key medication in preventing opioid overdose deaths, which have risen significantly in recent years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 80,000 people died of an overdose involving opioids in 2021, and nearly 10% of all workplace deaths are due to an opioid overdose. As America’s leading nonprofit focused on workplace safety, NSC believes access and the proper training to administer Naloxone can save countless lives and is thrilled workplaces can now easily obtain this lifesaving drug for First Aid kits.
NSC recommends five steps for employers to take to address the overdose issue:
- Assess workplace readiness for having naloxone in the workplace
- Ensure all legal and liability concerns are addressed
- Establish workplace policies and procedures on responding to an opioid overdose with naloxone (pre, during and post overdose scenarios should be addressed)
- Get trained on how to respond to an opioid overdose with naloxone and necessary CPR after naloxone administration
- Obtain Naloxone.
Now is the time for action. Employers will continue to need guidance when addressing this issue, and the Council’s Opioids at Work Employer Toolkit can help workplaces navigate the policies and procedures necessary for each organization’s emergency preparedness plan. The Council’s online and in-person first aid training covers Naloxone administration.
NSC stands ready to continue providing education through First Aid training to help employers obtain and maintain Naloxone in the workplace, and looks forward to this lifesaving medication being available to all.
Source: NSC