Naloxone kits soon required at Ontario construction sites
A tool used to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses will become mandatory on Ontario construction sites beginning next month.
In a news release, the Residential Construction Council of Ontario advised builders about the new legislation, which kicks in June 1, making it a requirement for naloxone kits to be on site.
“Most RESCON members are already ahead of the game and have included naloxone kits on site as part of their health and safety protocols, but we want to make sure everybody is aware of the deadline,” said RESCON vice-president Andrew Pariser, who is chair of the association’s safety committee.
“Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, all Ontario employers who know, or ought to know, that there is a risk of an opioid overdose in their workplace, are required to ensure that, at all times while there are workers in the workplace, a naloxone kit is made available in good condition,” said the release.
Naloxone kits have medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and allow time for medical help to arrive.
About 2,500 people in Ontario died from opioid-related causes between March 2020 and January 2021. Of the victims who were employed, 30 per cent worked in the construction industry, said RESCON.
Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister Monte McNaughton has indicated the province is bringing naloxone kits to highrisk settings.
“The ministry’s first approach is education, but under the OHSA more significant fines can now be imposed on poor performers and repeat offenders,” said the recent news release.
Earlier this month, Niagara’s consumption and treatment services site operated by Positive Living Niagara recently saved a life for the 1,000th time since the facility opened in downtown St. Catharines in December 2018.
In 2022, Welland firefighters began equipping themselves with naloxone to deal with opioid-related overdoses. Fire services in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines have also taken this measure.
Naloxone kits are distributed free through many pharmacies, Niagara Emergency Medical Services other agencies for people at risk.