Opioid-related overdose deaths in Maryland (2018), by industry and occupation

Jodi J Frey; George Jay Unick; Danielle R Phillips; Rachel Imboden; Amanda Mosby; Orrin D Ware; Clifford S Mitchell; Marianne Cloeren

doi:10.1097/JOM.0000000000003092

Opioid-related overdose deaths in Maryland (2018), by industry and occupation

J Occup Environ Med. 2024 Mar 14. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003092. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Jodi J Frey, George Jay Unick, Danielle R Phillips, Rachel Imboden, Amanda Mosby, Orrin D Ware, Clifford S Mitchell, Marianne Cloeren

PMID: 38489404
DOI: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003092

Abstract

Objective: Opioid-related overdose deaths (OROD) increase annually, yet little is known about workplace risk factors. This study assessed differences in OROD rates across industry and occupation in Maryland, in addition to demographic differences within industry and occupation.

Methods: The 2018 State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System (SUDORS) was used to compare OROD between industries and occupations.

Results: The leading industries in OROD included: construction, manufacturing, and transportation and warehousing. Occupational groups were similar: construction and extraction, production, and transportation and material moving. There were also differences by sex (greater rates in men), age (greater rates in older workers), and race/ethnicity (varied patterns in rates).

Conclusion: Employers and state leaders should work collaboratively to target prevention and intervention for workplaces at highest risk for OROD. Construction was highest and needs supports that respond to the workplace culture.