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Bars, nightclubs, and construction sites are some of the areas where naloxone is now found.
The province is requiring naloxone kits in workplaces where overdoses are a potential hazard.
Ontario is the first in North America to have such legislation in place.
“Ontario is in the middle of an opioid epidemic, and every one of these deaths is preventable,” says Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “From worksites to nightclubs, requiring naloxone kits in at-risk businesses will help us increase awareness for opioid addiction, reduce the stigma, and save lives.”
Naloxone is widely used as a life-saving medication to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
The province says it has distributed more than one thousand free kits to eligible businesses.
“Ensuring that naloxone is free and easily accessible across the province is a critical part of our government’s strategy to reduce overdose deaths,” says Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Everyone’s life has meaning, and naloxone gives people the second chance they deserve. This policy will save lives and make Ontario a safer place to work.”
Employees also have to be trained on how to use the medication.
Employers who do not comply can face orders or fines under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
They can determine if they are eligible for the program and find additional information on accessing naloxone kits and training at Ontario.ca/workplacenaloxone.