Creating Safer Places to Work: Naloxone Program Implementation
To help combat the opioid epidemic, a new regulation under the Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act came into effect on June 1, 2023 mandating certain employers to have naloxone kits on hand in the workplace. Recognizing the importance of this initiative, Minto has taken proactive steps to ensure all of our workplaces across Ontario are equipped with Naloxone kits and our employees are trained on how to use them. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of implementing Naloxone kits in the workplace and how doing so prioritizes the safety of our employees, our residents, and the communities we operate in.
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is a fast-acting, life-saving drug used to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including those caused by heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications. Naloxone can restore breathing within 2 to 5 minutes and is available in two user-friendly forms:
- Naloxone Nasal Spray
- Injectable Naloxone
Naloxone is a valuable tool that has been used to successfully reverse thousands of opioid overdoses across Canada, and when administered promptly, can help save lives.
Minto’s Commitment to Workplace Safety
While the specifics of “certain workplaces” remain unclear in the legislation, Minto has taken a proactive stance by implementing Naloxone kits across all Minto Properties workplaces and Minto Communities Canada construction sites, as well as Minto’s corporate offices. In addition, employees at each site have been provided training by Pathways to Recover, a not-for-profile organization, to ensure they are well-prepared to administer Naloxone in case of an opioid overdose.
The Rise in Opioid Addiction in Ontario
Opioid addiction and overdose present a significant challenge in Ontario, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address addiction and prevent fatal overdoses. In 2021, over 2,800 people died in Ontario from opioid overdose.
Minto’s decision to have Naloxone kits readily available across our construction sites, properties, and corporate offices demonstrates our dedication to fostering a safe environment for both our employees and residents, and ties back to our mission of creating better (and safer) places to live, work, and play. By taking a proactive stance on Naloxone implementation, we’re not only adhering to legal requirements, but going above and beyond to ensure the safety of our communities.
As a responsible corporate citizen, Minto looks forward to continuing to set an example for others in recognizing the importance of Naloxone in saving lives and contributing to a safer, healthier community.