Drug poisoning is one of the leading causes of death for working-age people in B.C. and on the North Shore.
As a business, you can play a crucial role in improving the health and safety of your employees and the broader community.
The North Vancouver Chamber, in collaboration with Vancouver Coastal Health and the District of North Vancouver, encourages local employers to explore the following resource: The Drug Poisoning Crisis & North Shore Businesses.
Here are actions you can take to support the efforts to tackle the drug poisoning crisis:
- Reduce Stigma in the Workplace
Address harmful stereotypes and share factual information about the drug poisoning crisis.
Complete free, online training to better understand the impacts of stigma: https://stigma.vchlearn.ca/ - Be Prepared to Respond to an Overdose
Ensure your employees are trained in First Aid, Overdose Recognition, and Naloxone use.
Free Naloxone Training: Access a free online Naloxone 101 course here:
https://towardtheheart.com/naloxone-course
Businesses can also purchase naloxone kits from community pharmacies and arrange training for staff. - Support Employees and Community Members with Resources
Vancouver Coastal Health offers a comprehensive range of mental health and substance use services on the North Shore: https://www.vch.ca/en/health-topics/north-shore-mental-health-andsubstance-use-services
Find free naloxone for people at risk or their loved ones in your area:
https://towardtheheart.com/site-finder
By being informed, reducing stigma, and preparing for emergencies, we can help save lives and create a safer, more compassionate environment for all.
