Listen Live

Province invests in drug-poisoning prevention for Island construction workers

As the ongoing toxic drug crisis continues to take its deadly toll, the provincial government is teaming up with the construction sector to shine a light on drug addiction in the trades.

It’s been an all-too-common story: people get injured working in construction, use drugs for pain relief, get addicted, and die using toxic street drugs. 

Today (Jan. 13), Mental Health and Addictions Minister Sheila Malcolmson pointed to some alarming statistics.

“The toxic drug crisis continues to take lives at a tragic rate. In cases where we know where someone worked, nearly 20 per cent of those who died worked in trades, transport or as equipment operators,” she said.

According to Malcolmson, the Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) has received a provincial grant to expand its Tailgate Toolkit project, a harm-reduction program to prevent toxic drug poisoning.

The project looks to reduce the stigma associated with substance use and raise awareness of pain management, pathways to treatment and other information about mental health and substance use.

An expanded toolkit will allow workplaces to educate staff about substance use to help prevent toxic drug deaths, plus harm-reduction and recovery strategies and employee resources, including weekly support groups.

The province says it’s investing $1 million through the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division and the Community Action Initiative to support the expansion.

As part of this project, construction associations throughout B.C., including the VRCA, the Southern Interior Construction Association and the Northern Regional Construction Association, will host dedicated harm-reduction coordinators.

READ MORE: Toxic drug crisis: Island’s 2021 death toll climbs past 260

Continue Reading

cfcp Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Wind warnings in effect for Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued wind warnings across Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.

Comox Valley Farmers’ Market seeks feedback ahead of preparation for 2026 season

The Comox Valley Farmers' Market wants to hear from you as staff prepare for its next season in 2026.

New photos released as Comox Valley RCMP’s search for missing woman continues

Comox Valley RCMP have released new information and photos as the search for a missing woman nears one week. 

First Nations leaders condemn ‘alarmist’ comments on Cowichan title ruling

The First Nations Leadership Council said it’s “deeply disturbed and angered” by what it calls alarmist comments by B.C. Conservative leader John Rustad about Aboriginal title rights.

B.C. proposes expanded job protections for workers with serious illness or injury

British Columbia's government has tabled legislation aimed at improving job protections for workers with serious illness or injury.
- Advertisement -