#United States #New York #Construction Safety #Opioid Crisis #NYC Safety Fund

NYC Construction Safety Fund's New Initiative to Combat Opioid Overdose

On February 11, 2025, during the annual Education & Training Awards breakfast, the NYC Building & Construction Industry Safety Fund unveiled a vital educational initiative focusing on the fentanyl-opioid crisis that is impacting not just the construction sector but society at large.

A Growing Concern

Gary LaBarbera, co-chairman of the Safety Fund and President of the Building Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, brought attention to the alarming statistics regarding drug-related fatalities in the construction workforce. He stated, "Currently, workers in construction face the highest drug overdose death rate compared to any other industry. This epidemic spares no one, and as leaders, it is our responsibility to act."

The joint efforts involved discussions with stakeholders across the field including contractors, union leaders, safety experts, and healthcare professionals, revealing an urgent need for proactive measures against opioid misuse.

Introducing HOPE/LIVES

In response to these findings, the Safety Fund has launched the HOPE/LIVES campaign. The primary objective is to place NARCAN® Nasal Spray emergency kits at every construction job site, thereby equipping every worker with the means to tackle an opioid overdose situation. Additionally, every construction worker, contractor, and staff member will receive NARCAN® along with comprehensive training on its usage.

NARCAN® Nasal Spray represents a crucial tool in the battle against opioid overdoses, being the first FDA-approved over-the-counter naloxone product for emergency situations. With opioid overdoses claiming over 80,000 lives in America annually, enhancing access to treatments like NARCAN® and ensuring proper training for application is vital for empowering workers.

Commitment to Safety

Paul Williams, Senior Vice President at Emergent BioSolutions, praised the Safety Fund for its initiative, stressing that opioid emergencies can occur anywhere, including the workplace. He stated, "At Emergent, we are dedicated to supporting organizations that fight against the opioid epidemic. We commend the NYC Building Construction Industry Safety Fund for their proactive approach to safeguarding their workforce."

John O'Hare, co-chairman of the Safety Fund and Managing Director of the Building Contractors Association of New York, added, "Our industry has historically prioritized the health and safety of its workers. While hard hats and harnesses protect us physically, integrating NARCAN® and essential training into our safety protocol addresses the often-unseen dangers of opioid misuse."

On-Site Education and Assistance

The HOPE/LIVES campaign will commence with a series of job site visits focusing on the dangers of opioid misuse. During these engagements, workers will be briefed on recognizing warning signs of overdose and immediate actions to take during an emergency. At the end of each session, participants will receive an Opioid Overdose Kit containing two doses of NARCAN®, usage instructions, sterile gloves, alcohol wipes, and a protective mask, along with essential contact information for further assistance and support.

LaBarbera emphasized the physical rigors of construction work, which often lead laborers to seek pain relief through prescription medications, subsequently putting them at risk of addiction and overdose. He remarked, "Today, we are taking the first step towards addressing this critical issue head on."

A Joint Effort for Change

Founded in 2017, the NYC Building Construction Industry Safety Fund is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the well-being of construction workers in New York. The launch of the HOPE/LIVES initiative signifies a commitment to provide support not only to the families of workers who suffer tragic work-related fatalities but also to those grappling with the current fentanyl-opioid crisis.

About NARCAN® Nasal Spray

NARCAN® Naloxone HCl Nasal Spray 4 mg is recognized for its essential role in the emergency treatment of opioid overdoses. However, it is crucial to note it is not a replacement for professional medical care and should be administered as instructed.

Through initiatives like HOPE/LIVES, the NYC Building & Construction Industry Safety Fund aims to elevate safety standards within the construction sector and contribute meaningfully to the broader fight against the opioid crisis.