Drugs

Boston — The rate of opioid-related overdose deaths among Massachusetts workers in 2016 and 2017 rose 83.7% over the previous five-year period, with construction and agricultural occupations experiencing dramatic jumps, according to a recent report from the state’s Department of Public Health.

Washington — State driver’s licensing agencies will have 60 days to initiate mandatory downgrades of commercial driver’s licenses and commercial learner’s permits once notified that a commercial motor vehicle operator has failed a drug or alcohol test, under a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration final rule set to go into effect Nov. 8.

Itasca, IL — In light of recently released survey results that reveal significant gaps in knowledge between employees and employers about the safety risks posed by cannabis use in the workplace, the National Safety Council is calling on business leaders to do more to educate and protect their workers.

Washington — As part of its efforts to “reduce the impact of the opioid overdose epidemic among construction workers,” NIOSH is sharing recommendations and resources.

Washington — NIOSH has released a video intended to boost awareness of Workplace Supported Recovery programs, which provide resources for workers and employers affected by the ongoing opioid epidemic and other substance misuse disorders.

Cambridge, MA — Certain programs and policies may help curb the excessive prescribing of opioids and potential misuse, results of a recent study by the Workers Compensation Research Institute suggest.

Washington — A proposal to “streamline and improve error-correction procedures, queries, and consent requirements” within the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse is among the anticipated agency actions listed on the Department of Transportation’s regulatory agenda for Spring 2021.

Silver Spring, MD — In an effort to prevent “opioid-related harms” in the construction industry, CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training has completed three new projects.

Secaucus, NJ — Paced by sharp rises in marijuana positivity rates, the positive drug test rate for U.S. workers continued at a historically high level in 2020, according to an annual analysis conducted by lab services provider Quest Diagnostics.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created new hurdles for workers in recovery or seeking help for opioid misuse.