When an Off-Duty Construction Worker Saved a Life Using Narcan

The construction industry, with its physically demanding work and high rates of injury, is on the front lines of the opioid crisis. As the industry grapples with the devastating impact of opioid use, there is a growing recognition of the need to make naloxone (Narcan) readily available in workplaces and on jobsites. Naloxone, a life-saving drug that can reverse opioid overdoses, is a critical tool that can make the difference between life and death in an emergency.

Jimmy Kelly, a professional painter in metro Boston, exemplifies why naloxone should be a staple in every workplace–particularly construction. As a member of the International Union of Painting and Allied Trades (IUPAT), Local #1138, and District Council #35, Jimmy has been in recovery for eight years. He credits his union for providing the resources and training that have empowered him to save lives.

Jimmy Kelly, professional painterCourtesy of Jimmy KelleyIn April 2022, while at Boston Medical Center, Kelley encountered a situation where his naloxone training became crucial. A woman was found unresponsive in a restroom. Despite being in a medical facility, it was Jimmy—a union-trained worker—who administered Narcan and revived her. His quick action saved her life, demonstrating the importance of having naloxone accessible in any setting.

Reflecting on his experience, Kelley says, “Obviously, it’s great, but it would be even better if she got the help she needed to live a sober life.” His sentiment highlights the ongoing challenge of not just saving lives, but also ensuring that those who are saved have the support they need to pursue recovery.

District Council 35’s commitment to addressing the opioid crisis extends beyond the jobsite. Chris Brennan, Business Manager Secretary-Treasurer of District Council 35, expressed pride in Kelley’s actions. “I was humbled to hear that our District Council 35 union brother Jimmy Kelly had the chance to put the Narcan training we gave during Recovery Week to good use,” says Brennan. “District Council 35’s dedication to mitigating the opioid crisis stretches beyond the job site.”

Brennan highlights that many construction workers have experienced addiction themselves, which fosters a deep sense of empathy for those struggling with substance use. “We’re growing an army of first responders to support our union brothers and sisters, friends, and neighbors,” he adds, emphasizing the union’s broader mission to promote recovery and save lives.

The union’s support has been vital in Kelley’s recovery journey: “I can’t say enough about my business manager. He was just an organizer at that time, and he was in recovery. He has been pretty much a de facto EAP [Employee Assistance Program]. He started our recovery group… just knowing that co-workers and my union were very supportive.”

How SAFE Project Empowers Workplaces

In addition to union support, SAFE Project’s SAFE Workplaces initiative works directly with individual businesses to address substance use and addiction. SAFE Project can assist a workspace to overcome stigma and implement valuable resources and effective naloxone programs.

In addition, SAFE Project’s SAFE Solutions platform is a valuable resource for employers looking to combat the opioid crisis. This free, wiki-based platform consolidates a wealth of resources to support communities, businesses, and public entities in planning their responses to substance use and overdose.

Employers in construction and public entities have a responsibility to protect their workers, especially given the high risk of opioid misuse in these industries.

By providing tools, guidelines, and best practices, SAFE Project empowers employers to create safer workplaces. Whether it’s offering naloxone training, developing substance use policies, or connecting with local health resources, SAFE Project is a crucial partner in the fight against opioid overdoses.

Employers in construction and public entities have a responsibility to protect their workers, especially given the high risk of opioid misuse in these industries. Providing naloxone and ensuring employees are trained to use it is not just a matter of compliance—it’s about saving lives and fostering a supportive workplace culture.

About his experience administering naloxone to a stranger, Kelley says, “I think a lot of people think their life, especially younger kids, think their life is going to be, ‘no fun’. So, if anything, I hope that has influenced or proved to some people that you can recover and have a happy, healthy life.”

The Recovery Team within District Council #35 of the International Union of Painters & Allied TradesCourtesy of Jimmy Kelley

A Practical & Moral Imperative

Naloxone’s presence on job sites can make a significant difference. Kelly’s experience at Boston Medical Center underscores the unpredictability of overdose situations and the need for widespread access to naloxone. Even in a medical facility, it was his union training that enabled him to act swiftly and effectively.

Recognition of Kelley’s actions reflects the union’s commitment to making a positive impact. “We strive to help everyone in our community to seek healthy lives in recovery and to save lives anywhere we can,” says Brennan. “Thank you, Jimmy, for being a great union brother and a great member of our community.”

Incorporating naloxone into construction workplaces is a wise and necessary decision. Jimmy Kelly’s story underscores how proper training and access to naloxone can save lives and create a culture of empathy and support. With the resources provided by unions and organizations like SAFE Project, employers have the power to protect their workers and contribute to the fight against the opioid crisis by making naloxone readily available.

By taking this proactive step, employers are not only safeguarding their employees—they are actively participating in saving lives and ensuring the well-being of their workforce. This is the type of leadership that can turn the tide in the battle against opioid overdoses, one workplace at a time.