What Happened

Bipartisan legislation reintroduced in both the House and Senate would direct OSHA to develop employer guidance on acquiring opioid overdose reversal medication and training workers on its use. The Workplace Overdose Reversal Kits (WORK) to Save Lives Act was introduced by Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and Rep. John Rutherford (R-FL) in the House, with companion legislation from Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in the Senate.

The bill would require OSHA to issue nonmandatory guidance for private employers on acquiring, maintaining, and providing annual training on overdose reversal medication such as naloxone. For federal agencies, the requirements would be mandatory.

Why It Matters for Chemical Industry Workplaces

Opioid overdoses have become a significant workplace safety issue across all industries, including chemical manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. According to data cited in the legislation, approximately 83,000 opioid-involved overdose deaths were reported in 2022 alone, and drug overdose deaths rose over 30% during COVID-19's first year.

A National Safety Council survey found that 75% of employers reported being impacted by opioid use in the workplace, yet only 17% felt well-prepared to address it. The gap between impact and preparedness is exactly what the WORK to Save Lives Act aims to close.

For companies that handle hazardous chemicals, maintaining comprehensive workplace safety programs is already standard practice. Adding naloxone to existing first-aid kits and emergency response protocols is a natural extension of that safety culture.

Key Provisions of the WORK to Save Lives Act

• OSHA guidance for private employers — Nonmandatory guidance on acquiring and maintaining overdose reversal medication and training employees annually on its use
• Mandatory federal agency rules — Federal agencies would be required to acquire overdose reversal medication, maintain supplies, and train employees annually
• Bipartisan support — The bill has 14 House cosponsors from both parties and endorsements from the National Safety Council, the SAFE Project, and the Global Health Advocacy Incubator

Industry Context

Rep. Watson Coleman stated: "The WORK To Save Lives Act will finally give workplaces the tools to save workers who are struggling with opioid addiction." Sen. Merkley added: "Naloxone saves lives, and ensuring workplaces have access to it is an important part of a multi-pronged effort."

The legislation follows a pattern of increasing federal attention to workplace health hazards beyond traditional chemical and physical exposures. OSHA has been expanding its focus to include substance use and mental health as components of comprehensive workplace safety programs.

Chemical industry employers who already maintain robust safety and compliance programs are well-positioned to integrate naloxone training alongside existing hazard communication, PPE, and emergency response procedures.

What Employers Should Consider

• Review your emergency response plan — Consider whether naloxone should be added to your first-aid supplies and whether your emergency action plan addresses overdose response
• Train first responders on-site — Even before the bill passes, adding naloxone training to your existing safety training program is a best practice the National Safety Council recommends
• Check your state laws — Many states already have naloxone access laws that protect employers who make the medication available to workers
• Document everything — As with all workplace safety measures, maintain records of training, supplies, and any incidents. Your safety program documentation should evolve alongside regulatory changes.