Naloxone in Ontario Workplace Overview
Effective June 1, 2023, employers must provide naloxone at work if certain conditions specified in the Occupational Health and Safety Act apply.
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 remains available at $30.00 per person.
About the Training
Learn how to respond to an opioid poisoning emergency and administer nasal naloxone with the ON Workplace Naloxone – First Aid for Opioid Poisoning Emergencies Course. Gain knowledge about opioids and naloxone's effects on the body and explore methods to minimize stigma.
Who Should Take this Course?
Ontario-based employees seeking training to meet provincial requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Working for Workers Act (Bill 88).
This course has no prerequisites, and it is an online self-directed course. Participants learn at their own pace by working through the training materials independently online. Duration: approximately 60 minutes, depending on the individual.
Course Curriculum
Why take this training with the Canadian Red Cross?
- Course delivery is online and self-directed for flexibility and convenience. No appointment is needed.
- A digital certificate for each employee is provided at course completion.
- Courses offered in English and French.
- Course is compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
A Lifesaving Intervention for Opioid Poisoning Emergencies in the Workplace
Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that temporarily reverses the effects of opioid poisoning. It can be administered through injection or nasal spray. Naloxone is a safe medication that only works if opioids are present.
Administering naloxone will not hurt the person if their condition is not caused by opioid poisoning. In some cases, naloxone may induce withdrawal, which, while uncomfortable, is not usually life-threatening.
How Many Naloxone Kits Should an Employer in Ontario Have?
Employers must provide at least one naloxone kit in workplaces where they know or should be aware of the risk of worker opioid poisoning. They aren't required to provide a kit where no risk exists, such as in a separate location with no known risk.
The OHSA doesn't mandate a specific number of kits but requires employers to take reasonable precautions for worker protection. Employers may provide multiple kits if multiple at-risk workers are present or if the workplace size warrants quick administration.
Storing and Maintaining Naloxone Kits in the Ontario Workplace
Employers must promptly replace used or expired single-use items in naloxone kits, adhering to manufacturer instructions for usage, storage, and maintenance.
- Stored at room temperature (between 15 and 25°C)
- Kept in the kit until needed
- Protected from light
Check the expiry dates on the nasal spray device and replace expired naloxone. Take expired or unused kits to Ontario pharmacies for safe disposal. Post names and locations of trained naloxone kit handlers conspicuously near the kit to inform other workers.
