Opioid overdoses aren’t just a personal or medical issue; they’re a workplace safety issue, too. From construction sites to warehouses, manufacturing plants to office buildings, the opioid crisis has made its way into every industry. As safety professionals, HR teams, and business owners, we can no longer ignore the importance of being prepared to respond, and Narcan (naloxone) is a vital part of that preparation.
Why Every Workplace Should Be Narcan Ready
The opioid epidemic has reached alarming levels in the U.S., with fentanyl-related deaths and overdoses rising dramatically over the past few years. Accidental overdoses can happen anywhere, including on the job, whether it's an employee, a contractor, a visitor, or even a member of the public near your jobsite.
If someone experiences an opioid overdose, every second counts. Narcan is a life-saving medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and keep someone alive until emergency responders arrive. It's safe, easy to administer, and increasingly accessible.
3 Reasons to Keep Narcan On-Site
It Saves Lives
Narcan can reverse an overdose within minutes and is safe to use even if the person isn’t experiencing an overdose. Having it on hand can mean the difference between life and death.
It Protects Your People
Whether it’s an employee, a subcontractor, or a bystander, having Narcan ready shows your commitment to health, safety, and being prepared for real-world risks.
It’s Becoming a Best Practice
More companies are incorporating opioid overdose preparedness into their safety plans, especially in industries heavily affected by physical labor, stress, and injury-related prescriptions.
Who Can Administer Narcan?
In most states, anyone can administer Narcan. It comes in an easy-to-use nasal spray, and many states have Good Samaritan laws that protect individuals who provide overdose assistance in good faith. At Colorado Safety Supply Company, we can even help you organize short Narcan training sessions as part of your regular toolbox talks or safety days.
Next Steps for Your Jobsite or Office
Stock Narcan in First Aid Kits
Make sure it's available in common areas, near AEDs, or in your safety supervisor’s vehicle.
Train Your Team
Brief your staff on what Narcan is, how to recognize an overdose, and how to use it safely and legally.
Create an Overdose Response Plan
Add it to your Emergency Action Plan (EAP), just like you would for a fire, injury, or cardiac event.
Be Ready. Be Safe. Be Compassionate.
Having Narcan in your workplace doesn’t mean you expect something to go wrong. It means you're prepared if it does. It's a simple step that reflects powerful leadership, strong safety culture, and care for your team.
If you're ready to add Narcan to your safety program or want more information about how to get started, Colorado Safety Supply Company is here to help. We offer guidance, training resources, and support tailored to your jobsite, office, or facility.
Call us at (303) 537-5832.
