Since 2016, more than 55,000 people have died from opioid-related drug toxicity in Canada. In 2025, 74% of opioid toxicity deaths occurred among males, with 51% of these deaths occurring among males aged 30–49. Trades workers are also disproportionately impacted, particularly in sectors such as construction. This piece explores how workplace injuries, chronic pain, stigma, and punitive workplace policies contribute to harms and create barriers to care. It highlights the need for evidence-based, non-coercive substance use health services and workplace policies grounded in harm reduction, dignity, and workers’ rights.
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