The toolkit includes information on five concrete actions employers can take to prevent and address drug among employees:
- Change the conversation around opioid use disorder and reduce stigma
- Promote safe use, storage and disposal of controlled substances
- Prepare for overdose emergencies with naloxone access and training
- Access help for those who are dependent on or addicted to opioids
- Support wellness of all employees and be a recovery-friendly workplace
The toolkit also has sample social media messages, e-mails and flyers employers can customize and distribute to employees . According to the U.S. Surgeon General, treatment for substance use disorders is highly effective. However, many people only enter treatment after a crisis. The Opioid Epidemic Response: Employer Toolkit provides employers with a chance to intervene early before a crisis occurs. In 2017, Minnesota recorded 401 opioid-involved deaths and 694 drug overdose deaths, according to preliminary data. In 2016, there were 395 opioid-involved overdose deaths in Minnesota—a rate of 7.4 deaths per 100,000 people. Minnesota’s rate of deaths has risen dramatically since 2000, when it was 1.1 deaths per 100,000 residents.
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