OSHA issues guidance on responding to workplace opioid overdoses

On September 24, OSHA issued guidance to help employers respond to opioid emergencies. Opioid Overdose Rescue and Reversal Medications provides employers with practical information on recognizing the signs of an overdose and responding immediately.

The factsheet outlines key preparedness strategies for employers, including:

• Keeping FDA-approved reversal medications, such as naloxone or nalmefene, readily available.
• Storing overdose kits in highly visible, easily accessible locations.
• Educating workers on how to recognize key symptoms of an overdose, such as slow or stopped breathing, blue lips or skin, pinpoint pupils, or unresponsiveness.
• Preparing for an emergency by training workers to administer the medication, safely position the individual, and provide supportive care until first responders arrive.

Even if these life-saving medications are available, OSHA emphasizes that workplace responders should immediately call 911 in the event of an opioid emergency.

The factsheet can be found on OSHA’s Publications webpage.