Washington — New resources from the National Safety Council are intended to prepare California employers for a forthcoming requirement to include opioid-reversal medications in their workplace first aid kits.
Under A.B. 1976, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Sept. 27, 2024, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is directed to draft, by Dec. 1, 2027, a rulemaking proposal amending current rules to require naloxone or another Food and Drug Administration-approved opioid-reversal medication in workplace first aid kits, along with instructions on use and storage guidance.
The law also clarifies liability protections for anyone who administers opioid antagonists in “good faith” during emergencies, including licensed emergency medical personnel, except in cases of gross negligence or misconduct.
The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board then must consider adopting the revised rules before Dec. 1, 2028.
The resources from NSC include an implementation guide; a workplace policy template; and guidance on naloxone access, storage and training. The council also hosted a webinar on May 26 titled, “California Worksites and Naloxone: What Employers Need to Know.” It’s set to host another on June 16 titled, California Worksites and Naloxone: Awareness to Action.
More than 11,000 drug-related overdose deaths were recorded in California in 2023. Nearly 70% involved an opioid.
In 2024, emergency medical services responded to 12,600 potential opioid overdoses at U.S. workplaces, according to Injury Facts – an online statistical database maintained by NSC.
