Overdoses are the leading cause of unintentional death in the United States and account for nearly 10% of all workplace fatalities.
NSC recently announced the launch of several new initiatives. Aimed at raising awareness and supporting access to lifesaving resources, the new initiatives include a free opioid overdose e-learning, an online workplace wellbeing hub, and the availability of bulk online purchasing of NARCAN Nasal Spray for employers nationwide.
"Workplace overdose deaths are occurring at devastating rates, and we know more can be done to save lives,” said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council (NSC), in a statement. “By providing essential tools, resources, and education, we can empower workplaces to be prepared, resilient, and ultimately save lives. We implore employers to join NSC in stocking these medications at all worksites."
The newly released free e-learning course covers the impacts of opioid overdoses in the workplace, signs and symptoms of an overdose, administration of opioid overdose reversal medication, and incorporation of these medications into workplace safety plans. Participants also receive an introduction to hands-only CPR.
In addition to the e-learning, NSC is launching the online Workplace Wellbeing Hub. The Hub is an interactive and innovative resource designed to provide workplaces with educational, implementable and actionable tools to address critical wellbeing-related causes of impairment, injuries and fatalities, starting with substance use.
The Hub has four sections: Policies, Benefits, Employee Training, and Data Collection and Analysis. The Hub includes customizable policies, guides for collecting and using data, a benefits checklist to evaluate what services a workplace provides and more.