Substance Use & Recovery Support

Construction workers have some of the highest rates of substance use disorder and opioid overdose deaths of any occupation. Pain from injuries, long hours, time away from home and a tough-it-out culture all play a part. Recovery is possible, and coworkers can make a real difference.

• Workers
• Supervisors

Why the trades are hit hard

• Injuries and chronic pain, sometimes treated with opioids
• Long hours, travel, and seasonal layoffs
• A culture where asking for help can feel like weakness
• Heavy drinking accepted as normal off the job

Signs a coworker may be struggling

• Often late, absent or leaving early
• Mood swings, withdrawal, or conflicts with the crew
• More near misses and mistakes
• Signs of impairment at work: slurred speech, poor coordination, nodding off

How to help

• If someone is impaired on the job, keep them away from equipment and heights, and tell a supervisor. Safety comes first.
• Talk privately and without judgment: “I’ve noticed you seem off lately. I’m worried. How are you doing?”
• Share resources: your Employee Assistance Program (EAP), union member assistance, the SAMHSA helpline.
• Ask doctors about non-opioid pain options after an injury.
• Carry naloxone and know how to use it.

Job protections

• FMLA: eligible workers can take unpaid, job-protected leave for treatment. See Leave Laws.
• ADA: people in recovery who aren’t currently using illegal drugs may be protected from discrimination and entitled to accommodations, like time off for appointments. Current illegal drug use isn’t protected.
• Drug-free workplace and testing policies still apply. See Drug Testing.

Recovery-friendly workplaces

Employers can train supervisors, offer EAPs and peer support, review pain management after injuries, give second chances with treatment, and talk openly about mental health and addiction. See Suicide Prevention.

Last updated: October 2, 2026