The Rise of Fentanyl and What It Means for Union Workers

In recent years, fentanyl has become the most dangerous drug in America, responsible for a growing number of overdose deaths across every industry and community. For union workers, especially those in construction, manufacturing, transportation, and the trades, the risk is rising faster than ever.

At Union Recovery Service, we’re seeing first-hand how fentanyl’s spread has impacted hardworking men and women who never thought they’d face addiction. Understanding the threat — and how to respond — is the first step toward prevention and recovery.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Originally designed for medical pain relief, it’s now being illegally manufactured and mixed into other drugs like cocaine, meth, and counterfeit pills.

Even a few grains the size of salt can cause a fatal overdose. Many users have no idea they’re consuming fentanyl until it’s too late.

For union workers managing pain from injuries or stress, this makes casual use of painkillers or recreational substances far more dangerous than ever before.

Union workers face a unique set of challenges that make them particularly vulnerable to fentanyl exposure and addiction, including:

• Physical injuries leading to prescribed pain medications

• High-stress environments and demanding labor schedules

• Cultural pressures to “push through” pain without rest

• Peer norms around alcohol or drug use after shifts

Because union jobs often involve safety-sensitive work, even minor substance use can have devastating consequences — not only for the individual but for their entire crew.

Fentanyl isn’t just a street drug — it’s showing up in legitimate-looking prescription pills, counterfeit painkillers, and substances that circulate on job sites or social gatherings.

A worker may think they’re taking something mild to relax or manage pain, but fentanyl contamination means one mistake can be fatal.

The DEA reports that over 70% of counterfeit pills seized in the U.S. now contain potentially lethal amounts of fentanyl.

Because fentanyl acts so quickly, early intervention is critical. Warning signs may include:

• Sudden drowsiness, confusion, or nodding off at unusual times

• Small pupils (“pinpoint pupils”)

• Unexplained mood swings or irritability

• Slurred speech or impaired coordination

• Slow breathing or difficulty waking up

• Missing work or changes in performance

If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a coworker, it’s time to seek professional help immediately.

Union locals, foremen, and safety officers can all take steps to protect their members and crews from fentanyl exposure.

Best Practices Include:

• Providing education and training about fentanyl risks

• Keeping naloxone (Narcan) available at job sites and training staff on its use

• Encouraging non-punitive reporting of substance use or overdose incidents

• Promoting Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for confidential support

• Partnering with recovery-focused organizations like Union Recovery Service

These proactive steps save lives — and strengthen the safety culture unions are built on.

If you or a fellow union member is struggling with opioid or fentanyl use, help is available — and confidential. The most effective recovery plans combine:

• Medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal safely

• Inpatient or outpatient programs designed for working schedules

• Aftercare and relapse prevention focused on long-term recovery

• Family and union support systems to reinforce accountability

At Union Recovery Service, we help members get back to work safely — without risking their jobs or benefits.

Support systems are essential. Families and coworkers can play a major role in preventing relapse or overdose by:

• Encouraging open dialogue about stress and pain

• Recognizing behavioral changes early

• Learning to administer naloxone (Narcan)

• Avoiding shame-based conversations — focus on compassion and safety

The rise of fentanyl has changed the landscape of addiction — but it doesn’t have to destroy lives or careers. Union Recovery Service provides specialized recovery programs for union members, combining professional treatment with workplace protection and family support.

Our mission is simple:
To help every union worker recover with dignity, confidentiality, and strength — one day at a time.

You don’t have to face addiction alone — and you don’t have to risk your job to get help.
At Union Recovery Service, we provide confidential, compassionate recovery programs designed specifically for union workers.