Naloxone in the Workplace

Starting June 1, 2023, employers must provide naloxone in the workplace if certain circumstances described in the Occupational Health and Safety Act apply. For a limited time, those employers can get free naloxone training and nasal spray naloxone kits through Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program.

Naloxone (pronounced na-LOX-own) is a drug that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioids are drugs that are prescribed by a medical practitioner to treat pain. However, opioids are also used recreationally. Some commonly used opioids include:

  • morphine
  • heroin
  • oxycodone
  • fentanyl
  • codeine
  • hydromorphone

While opioids can be an effective part of pain management for medically supervised patients, opioid addiction and overdose are a significant challenge in Ontario.

Naloxone only reverses overdoses from opioids. It will not reverse overdoses from other kinds of drugs, such as benzodiazepines or stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines.

For more information visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/naloxone-workplace