Monday, January 27, 2025

The Devastating Effects of Workplace Injury

Injured workers are more likely to suffer opioid-related health issues, study finds

The opioid crisis continues to grow, with 22 deaths per day in Canada between January and September 2023 (for a total of 5,975). That’s eight percent higher than 2022. There were also 4,646 opioid-related poisonings that led to hospitalization and 21,708 opioid-related poisonings that led to emergency room visits—and that’s only in the first three-quarters of the year.

The story is even worse for individuals who were formerly injured on the job. They are

• 2.4 times more likely to visit the ER for an opioid-related poisoning,

• 1.5 times more likely to be hospitalized for an opioid-related poisoning, and

• 1.4 times more likely to be hospitalized for an opioid-related mental or behavioural disorder (intoxication, withdrawal, dependence).

For some industries, the numbers are even higher. Workers in the following industries who have been previously injured are even more likely to visit the ER for an opioid-related poisoning:

• Construction (over 3 times more likely than the general population)

• Materials handling (2.8 times more likely)

• Mineral, metal, or chemical processing (2.7 times more likely)

• Machine-related occupations (2.6 times more likely)

Similar results were found regarding opioid-related mental and behavioural disorders for these industries. Two other groups that had slightly elevated risk were the service and healthcare industries.

The study, a collaborative undertaking by researchers from the Institute of Work and Health (IWH) and the Occupational Cancer Research Centre (OCRC), is a good reminder that healthcare providers must be cautious when prescribing opioids to injured workers.

6 Solutions Employers Can Embrace

Continue to prioritize workplace safety to reduce injuries.
Provide adequate supports and time away for injured workers to heal.
Create realistic return-to-work and accommodation plans (workers who feel pressured to return and work beyond their capacity are more likely to use opioids).
Provide mental health and addictions supports.
Discuss the dangers of opioids.
Create an environment where workers can disclose ongoing pain or concerns about their substance use.

The key is fostering open communication and being understanding. Different groups of workers have stated that there needs to be a series of supports in place, including among their coworkers, if they’re returning to work after an injury. Workers need to be able to talk about the issue, without fear of stigma, so they and their employers understand the risks of opioid addiction to previously injured workers.

If you are struggling with substance use—whether related to a workplace injury or not—contact the CLAC Alcohol and Drug Case Management Team. We are here for you. Visit the My Health and Wellness page on myCLAC.ca to learn more.

The Devastating Effects of Workplace Injury

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