Federal Guidance Covers Opioid Overdoses at Work

Employers now have federal guidance for responding to opioid overdoses on the job. The U.S. Department of Labor released the material last month, treating these incidents as emergencies that warrant advance planning. Naloxone, also marketed as Narcan, can counter an opioid overdose. It is FDA-approved, sold over the counter and safe to give even when an overdose has not occurred.

CDC figures put the nation’s overdose death toll above 70,000 during 2025. The daily average was about 194. The issue reaches across the workforce: National Library of Medicine data indicate that over 70% of adults who have a substance use disorder are employed. Construction carries particular exposure because strenuous labor, injuries and lasting pain can lead workers toward opioids. Across all industries, drug overdoses represent an increasing portion of deaths connected to work.

Associated Builders and Contractors pursued Recovery Friendly Workplace Institute certification and linked that effort to policies, education and employee resources. Its measures include naloxone supplies, an intranet recovery section, crisis-line cards in break rooms and training for senior leaders. Monthly meetings also bring in speakers who discuss recovery. The broader approach places overdose readiness alongside established workplace preparations such as first-aid supplies and AEDs.