The opioid crisis isn’t confined to homes or streets anymore. It’s everywhere, from quiet office buildings to noisy construction sites... It doesn't matter if you're managing a small warehouse team or overseeing a large construction project. If someone experiences an overdose on-site, every second counts.
In 2022, opioid overdoses claimed the lives of 81,806 Americans, ten times more than in 1999. Thankfully, that number has been dropping significantly, thanks in part to wider access to Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
That's why Narcan belongs in every workplace emergency plan. Having it nearby, and knowing how to use it, can mean the difference between life and death. In this article, we’ll break down exactly what Narcan is, why your worksite needs it, and how to use it properly.
Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Opioids slow breathing, and in large amounts, they can stop it completely. Narcan acts fast by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, buying precious minutes until emergency responders arrive.
The nasal spray version is the most common and easiest to use. While injectable options are available, the spray is preferred on worksites because it requires no medical training. In many cases, breathing starts again within minutes. Still, understanding how Narcan works is just the first step. Now, let’s walk through how to use it when every second counts.
Opioid overdoses can happen anywhere, even at work. Some employees may use prescription opioids for pain. Others may face addiction, or unintentionally encounter powerful drugs like fentanyl. Regardless of the reason, an overdose can strike suddenly and without warning.
That’s why having Narcan on-site is so important. Good Samaritan laws help protect those who step in, encouraging quick action during emergencies. With Narcan readily available, your team can respond confidently when every second counts.
Recognizing the signs of an overdose is the first step. If someone is unconscious, breathing slowly or not at all, or has blue lips or fingertips, act immediately:
Training plays a key role. Hands-on instruction that helps ensure your team knows exactly what to do when faced with an overdose. Confidence and speed can save lives.
While your team can take life-saving action, preparation doesn’t stop here. You need a trusted partner to help make overdose response part of a complete safety plan.
No workplace is immune to overdose emergencies. That’s why Thompson Safety helps you build a complete response plan. From stocking emergency response bags with Narcan to delivering hands-on overdose response training, we make preparation simple.
Narcan saves lives. Every worksite should be ready. Partner with Thompson Safety to protect your team and take the guesswork out of emergency response. Contact us today to build your custom safety solution.
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