The construction industry in British Columbia (B.C.) faces a severe opioid crisis. To tackle this issue, a new app called Level Up was launched in late June 2024, offering overdose prevention tools specifically designed for construction and other labor industries. This free app, developed by the non-profit Digital Public Square and funded by Health Canada, aims to support workers in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario.
Effie Argyropoulos, who helped design Level Up, emphasizes the worsening opioid crisis in these regions. B.C., Alberta, and Ontario have the highest number of fentanyl poisoning deaths. These provinces also experience significant housing shortages, building booms, and labor shortages, adding pressure on workers.
The Level Up app offers confidential, anonymous access to resources and information, helping workers seek support without fear of stigma. It guides users through questions to provide tailored information on drug testing, pain management, mental health, and support services.
Trades workers in B.C. are particularly vulnerable, with more than half of employed victims of toxic drug deaths working in trades, transport, or as equipment operators. Since its launch, Level Up has been used by over 200 people in the labor industry, with nearly three-quarters reporting a better understanding of support options.
Efforts to increase the app’s visibility include QR code stickers on helmets and toolboxes. Future updates will add harm reduction and withdrawal management services for each province.
The Level Up app is a vital tool for supporting construction workers and other laborers in managing opioid risks. By providing accessible, confidential resources, Level Up can save lives and promote a safer work environment.
At WeConstruX, we support initiatives like Level Up that aim to improve worker well-being. Together, we can combat the opioid crisis in our industry.
Click this Level up to download the app and access its resources. Source: New app offers construction workers overdose prevention tools | Vancouver Sun
