New DOL Guidance on Opioid Emergencies

OSHA has released a new fact sheet to help employers and workers respond to opioid overdose emergencies on the job. The guidance encourages workplaces to keep FDA-approved reversal medications like naloxone or nalmefene on hand and store them accessibly — much like a first-aid kit or AED — and to train workers to recognize overdose symptoms such as slow breathing, blue lips, or unresponsiveness and administer the medication while waiting for emergency responders. OSHA is clear that these medications buy critical time but do not replace calling 911, as professional medical care is still required.

For more information, read the full news release here.