Drugs

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Using recent data and analysis from NIOSH, the Workers Compensation Research Institute and other organizations, Safety+Health presents an infographic showing the impact of the opioid crisis on the workplace.

Providence, RI — Construction and extraction workers comprised nearly 20% of all drug overdose deaths in Rhode Island over a recent two-year period, with the majority attributed to fentanyl, according to preliminary data released in August by the state’s Department of Health.

Washington — NIOSH has released a video intended to assist first responders with understanding personal protective equipment protocol when facing potential exposure to fentanyl – a synthetic opioid considered up to 50 times more potent than heroin – and other illicit drugs.

Boston — People injured at work are more likely to die of suicide or a drug overdose when the injury requires at least a week off, results of a recent study led by researchers from the Boston University School of Public Health show.

Carson City, NV — Nevada has become the first state to prohibit almost all employers in the state from denying employment to job candidates who test positive for marijuana.

Washington — In response to the particularly heavy impact the opioid crisis is having on the construction industry, the National Association of Home Builders has introduced several free resources intended to help residential construction organizations combat the issue.

Rochester, NY — Approximately one-third of business owners with fewer than 500 employees are ill prepared to manage the impact of marijuana use on the workplace, according to the results of a recent poll.

New York — A new law in New York City bans employers, labor organizations and employment agencies from testing job applicants for marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinols, or THC – the active ingredient in marijuana.

Secretary of Labor R. Alexander Acosta made his first appearance before the House Education and Labor Committee at a May 1 hearing exploring his department’s “policies and priorities.”

Washington — The rate of overdose deaths among workers rose 24% annually over a recent six-year period, with heroin and opioids the most common contributors, results of a new NIOSH study show.