Naloxone Kits: Addressing The Opioid Crisis In Ontario Workplaces

With naloxone kits becoming mandatory, how can employers comply with the new requirements?

In response to the opioid crisis in Ontario, as of June 1, 2023, Ontario has introduced amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act. These amendments mandate employers to provide Naloxone kits in workplaces where there is a potential risk of a worker suffering from an opioid overdose.

Naloxone is a medication that temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. It is important to note that Naloxone specifically targets opioid overdoses. Naloxone can be administered through a nasal spray or via an intramuscular injection.

By ensuring the availability of Naloxone kits in workplaces where there is a risk of opioid overdose, it is possible to prevent fatal outcomes related to overdose if a worker experiences such an incident. 

Are All Workplaces in Ontario Required to Have a Naloxone Kit?

Not every workplace in Ontario is mandated to have a Naloxone kit. Only employers who are aware of or reasonably aware of the risk of a worker experiencing an opioid overdose at the workplace are required to have a Naloxone kit available on-site. The regulation states that employers must provide at least one kit for every 50 employees.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, common indicators of opioid use in the workplace include:
 

• The employer has witnessed or learned about a worker experiencing an opioid overdose on the premises.
• An employee has voluntarily disclosed to the employer that they feel at risk of overdosing while at work.

Who Can Administer Naloxone?

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA), employers have an obligation to designate a worker responsible for administering Naloxone within the workplace. This appointed should ideally perform their regular job duties near the location where the Naloxone kit is stored. Employers must ensure that the appointed worker is present on site whenever there are other workers present.

Additionally, according to the OHSA, employers are required to provide training to the designated employees responsible for administering Naloxone at least once per year. This training should cover topics, such as recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose, proper Naloxone administration techniques, and instructions on how to handle any complications or immediate effects that may arise from administering Naloxone. 

What Are the Consequences of Non-compliance?

Failure to comply with the minimum requirements of the OHSA may expose employers to potential penalties and legal consequences. Understand the OHSA. There is a maximum fine of $2 million for organizations that fail to adhere to workplace health and safety regulations. 

Michelle Ann Zoleta is the Health & Safety Advice Manager at Peninsula Canada.