Building a Naloxone Workplace Program

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids — including fentanyl, heroin and prescription opioid medications — when given in time. There is no training requirement to administer the medication or prescription needed to store and distribute the drug in your workplace. For these reasons, there are now national and state efforts underway to increase the number of workplaces that have naloxone on hand.

We are here to help your organization start a naloxone program. It is simple and cost effective. Having your plan ready could save a life.
 

Why Keep Naloxone in Your Workplace?

In 2024, in Virginia there were 1,221 fatal opioid overdoses, including 72 in the Fairfax Health District.

Any workplace could face an opioid overdose event, including employees, customers or visitors, and naloxone is an effective tool for reversing opioid overdoses when combined with calling 9-1-1 and other first-aid measures.

Naloxone distribution programs can be beneficial to increase naloxone availability among lay rescuers and decrease deaths from opioid-related overdoses, as noted by the American Heart Association in their 2025 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.  

With the right tools, bystanders can act to prevent overdose deaths. Anyone can carry or use naloxone, give it to someone experiencing an overdose and potentially save a life.
 


  1. Create a Workplace Naloxone Plan — This can be as simple or as detailed as you like. Key elements include identifying a staff lead, outlining what to do if naloxone is used, and setting a process to keep supplies and training up to date.
  2. Designate a Staff Lead — Make someone the point of contact for your workplace to make sure staff are educated and know the location of naloxone. This coordinator can also be responsible for tracking inventory, including replacing and disposing of expired naloxone.
  3. Purchase Naloxone and Make it Readily Available —Purchase your naloxone supply. Determine the best quantity and location(s) for naloxone in your workplace. Be sure to check the expiration dates so your naloxone remains effective.
  4. Train Staff — Education about recognizing overdoses and administering naloxone is readily available. There are many places online (see our resources section below) and training can often be completed in less than an hour. Ten-minute Fairfax County training videos are available in English and Spanish.
  5. Set a Schedule to Check In and Refresh — Make sure that the staff lead checks in regularly to see that supplies are where they should be and that medication has not expired. Set up regular reminders or training opportunities for staff (new members as well as those who would like a refresher). 

More About Naloxone from the CDC

Naloxone can reverse an overdose from opioids — including fentanyl, heroin and prescription opioid medications — and potentially save a life when given in time. While naloxone will not reverse overdoses from other drugs, it's always best to use it if you think someone is overdosing. According to the FDA, naloxone will not harm someone who does not have opioids in their system.

Purchasing Naloxone

Naloxone is available in all 50 states over the counter. Check your local pharmacy, convenience store, grocery store or gas station to find where you can buy naloxone. Large quantities of naloxone can be purchased from online vendors. 

Resources


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