OSHA Issues Workplace Opioid Emergency Guidance

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued new guidance Sept. 24, 2026, to help employers and workers prepare for and respond to opioid-related emergencies in the workplace. The agency released a fact sheet providing employers information on creating safer work environments and equipping employees to act in overdose situations.

The guidance addresses the growing concern of opioid overdoses that may occur in any work setting. The fact sheet offers practical steps for businesses, including developing emergency response plans and training staff to recognize overdose signs and administer naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication. The goal is to ensure immediate and effective assistance.

OSHA emphasizes that workplaces can be environments where opioid overdoses occur, whether due to prescription pain medication, illicit drug use, or other factors. The agency aims to empower employers and employees to handle these critical situations with preparedness. The guidance covers establishing clear protocols, ensuring access to overdose reversal medications, and creating a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable seeking help.

The fact sheet serves as a resource for businesses across all sectors to proactively address the risks associated with opioid emergencies. Employers should review the guidance and implement measures to protect their workforce.