The Ontario Workplace Naloxone Program
There are some changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) that will impact employers.
THE REQUIREMENTS
Starting June 1, 2023, OHSA the will require 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.
As a result of this update to the legislation, the Province of Ontario is offering free programs to fulfill your requirements under the act:
Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program
This temporary program is funded by the Province of Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program. Each employer who is required to comply with the OHSA requirements may register for a maximum of:
- free training for two workers per workplace where compliance will be required, and
- one free order of a nasal spray naloxone kit per workplace where compliance will be required.
Click here to get a free kit and training.
Take time to review all the necessary details relating to this legislation through the link below. There you can find a breakdown of the requirements and how they apply to the employer.
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