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Opioid Overdose Awareness and Better Pain Management

Opioid misuse continues to impact the construction industry, putting workers and projects at risk. This page provides management strategies, best practices, and helpful links to support prevention, education, and safe recovery pathways.

Frequently

asked questions

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Opioids affect nerve cells in your brain and body. They tell your brain to block pain, and they also make you feel calm and happy. However, over time, the body gets used to having the drug and feels terrible without it. Withdrawal is like having the flu, but much worse, and it can make it hard to stop taking the drug. If a person starts seeking and taking an opioid despite how it is interfering with work, school, or relationships, it is called addiction.

  • Slow or no breathing
  • Blue or gray lips and fingertips
  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness
  • Gurgling or choking sounds
  • Body goes limp
  • Pinpoint Pupils
  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Administer naloxone if available.
  • Perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained.
  • Stay with the person until emergency help arrives.

Naloxone (brand names: Narcan®, Kloxxado®) is a medication that rapidly reverses opioid overdose by blocking opioid receptors in the brain. It can be administered via nasal spray or injection and is safe even if the person is not experiencing an opioid overdose. Go to www.ANSW.org

Administering naloxone to someone experiencing an opioid overdose is generally safe and unlikely to cause harm, even if it turns out they weren’t overdosing on opioids.

Formal training isn’t always required, but it’s highly recommended to learn how to administer naloxone to respond to an opioid overdose effectively.

No. There are many non-opioid options for pain management, including:

  • Physical therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Non-opioid medications (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs)
  • Acupuncture and mindfulness techniques
  • Non-traditional methods (i.e., deep breathing, yoga, etc.)

Yes. Even when taken as prescribed, opioids carry a risk of dependence, tolerance, and addiction. Remember the saying: Go low, go slow. It’s important to:

  • Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions closely
  • Store opioids securely and dispose of them properly when no longer needed

TOOLBOX TALKS

Download and use this Toolbox Talks at your next safety meeting.

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