When you hear the word “overdose,” you might not immediately think of your workplace. But in Benton and Franklin counties, an overdose isn’t just a public health issue, it’s a workforce issue.

The most common overdose deaths in our region aren’t among teenagers or people without stable housing. They’re most commonly happening to adults in certain professions: mechanics, construction workers, warehouse staff and even salon professionals. These are employees, coworkers and community members. And they’re dying in increasing numbers.

“Too often, people assume an overdose can’t happen close to home,” said Shelley Little, public health nurse and overdose prevention coordinator at Benton-Franklin Health District. “But we’re seeing the impact in every ZIP code and every profession. ... These aren’t strangers.”

Why employers should care

Industries that rely on physical labor – like construction, manufacturing, automotive and beauty services – are particularly vulnerable.

Chronic pain, job-related injuries and high-stress environments and lack of access to health care can lead individuals to self-medicate – often using prescription or illicit drugs – when physical and behavioral health concerns aren’t adequately addressed through available services. This can sometimes escalate into misuse, dependency or addiction.

This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a business one. Substance use affects:

• Workplace safety.
• Employee retention.
• Productivity.
• Health care costs.
• Team morale.
• A new kind of campaign.

To combat stigma and promote action, the health district launched the “Be a User” campaign. The message? Use compassion. Use connection. Use the tools that save lives.

“We need to stop whispering about addiction and start asking, ‘How can I help you?’” said Kelly Harnish, healthy living manager at the health district. That’s what “Be a User” is all about  – meeting people where they are, supporting them at every stage of behavior change and keeping them safe whether they’re ready for recovery or not. Because behavior change, especially when it comes to substance use, takes time – and it’s rarely a straight path.”

What employers can do

Here’s how your business can be part of the solution:

1. Stock Naloxone (Narcan). This life-saving medication can reverse an opioid overdose in minutes. It’s easy to use and legal to carry in Washington state. Keep it in first aid kits and train staff on how to use it.

2. Train your team. Offer training on overdose response, mental health first aid and how to recognize signs of substance use. BFHD offers free resources and training. Send an email to [email protected].

3. Create a stigma-free culture. Encourage open conversations about mental health and addiction. Make sure employees know they can ask for help without fear of judgment or job loss.

4. Support harm reduction. Provide information about safe medication storage, disposal and services like NeverUseAlone.com. These tools save lives and reduce risk.

5. Review your policies. Ensure your workplace policies support recovery. Consider flexible leave for treatment, Employee Assistance Programs and return-to-work plans.

“A safer workplace isn’t just about hard hats and boots – it’s about supporting the whole person, on and off the clock,” Little said.

How to take action

More than 321,000 children in the U.S. have lost a parent to overdose in the past decade, a staggering statistic that underscores the human cost of the crisis. “Every number is a name. Every name is a life,” Harnish said. “Behind every overdose is a family in pain. This campaign is our way of saying: We see you. You matter. And we’re not giving up on you.”

In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31, take action, visit www.beauser.org for free training, naloxone kits, and overdose prevention resources and consider the following steps:

• Say their names: Honor those lost by sharing their stories.
• Learn the I-CARE method: Identify, Call 911, Administer Naloxone, Rescue breaths, Ensure safety.
• Support your team: Because every life is worth saving.

Together, these steps can help save lives and bring hope to families and communities still healing from the impact of overdose.

Amanda Moe is the communications and public affairs manager at Benton-Franklin Health District.