Promoting Opioid Awareness Through a Union-Based Peer Training Model

Abstract

Work factors, including physical job demands, appear to be risk factors for opioid overdoses. We collaborated with unions representing workers in high-risk occupations and offered resources to develop tailored educational interventions for their members. An ironworkers’ local, a statewide nurses’ union, and a Teamsters local union participated, at levels higher than we had anticipated. The three unions trained 285 workers, including apprentices, stewards, and those nearing retirement. Short surveys assessed pre- and post-training knowledge, attitudes, confidence in helping others, and related domains. Seventy percent of respondents reported heavy or very heavy physical demands at work, and one-half had experienced work-related pain. After training, participants reported more knowledge about opioids, less concern about stigma related to help-seeking, and more ability to provide help to a co-worker struggling with opioids. Peers with recovery experience provided a unique contribution to training. Tailored job-specific and peer-delivered educational interventions may be able to reduce the potential impact of opioids on working people.