Businesses Must Include Antagonist among Medical Supplies
Under federal law, all employers, regardless of size, must have “adequate” first aid supplies on the premises and readily available to employees. Though many employers need only stock basic first aid supplies, those in more dangerous industries may need to provide a wider range of first aid supplies to respond to specific hazards.
Under a new law signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on February 13, 2026, any employer who is subject to federal (OSHA) first aid requirements must have “opioid antagonist” substances among those first aid supplies.
What Is an Opioid Antagonist?
Opioid antagonists are pharmaceutical products that effectively block or reverse the effects of opioid drugs, including oxycodone, fentanyl and heroin. They can be highly effective in preventing fatal respiratory responses when users overdose.
What Does the New Law Require of Employers?
Under the new statute, any employer governed by the provision of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) must now have opioid antagonists among the inventory in the company’s first aid kit. The requirement will not go into effect immediately, though. The New York Department of Labor must first set forth regulations governing the possession and use of such substances by New York businesses. The tentative date for enforcement of the new law is December 13, 2026.
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