The opioid crisis is a growing public health emergency with tragic consequences for those who use substances, their families, communities, and workplaces.


Naloxone requirements in the Occupational Health and Safety Act

 

Effective June 1, 2023, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires employers to provide and maintain naloxone kits in the workplace if the employer becomes aware, or ought reasonably to be aware, that there may be a risk of a worker opioid overdose at a workplace where that worker performs work for the employer.

Those employers must also ensure that, at any time there are workers in the workplace, the naloxone kit is in the charge of a worker who:

  • works in the vicinity of the kit, and
  • has received training to recognize an opioid overdose, to administer naloxone and to acquaint the worker with any hazards related to the administration of naloxone.
Learn more about how employers can determine if they need to provide naloxone in the workplace.
 


Important Note:
 

The temporary funding provided by the Government of Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program for workplaces to access free training and naloxone kits is no longer available. Beyond March 31, 2024, employers are still required to comply with naloxone requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, however, all costs associated with compliance will be taken on by the employer. The paid option for training will remain available at $30.00 per person.

Any questions about the Workplace Naloxone Program can be directed to the Training and Awareness Branch, Prevention Division, Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development by email at PreventionFeedback@ontario.ca or by phone at 1-416-212-9871.

 

ON Workplace Naloxone Program – First Aid for Opioid Poisoning Emergencies Training

 

Red Cross naloxone training meets all requirements under the OHSA. Our self-directed online course offers specialized training in 45–60 minutes. Workers will learn about opioids and how they affect the body, how naloxone works, and how to administer nasal naloxone.

Register now

If you have any questions about the training, please email myrc@redcross.ca or call 1-877-356-3226.

The Canadian Red Cross is a national expert in Prevention and Safety education, training more than 1.8-million Canadians each year.