Protecting Yourself When Exposed to Fentanyl

Fentanyl Concerns

Many people are concerned about being harmed by fentanyl. However, thousands of lives have been saved without increasing reports of fentanyl overdoses in first responders.

Safe handling practices will keep people who respond safe. According to the American College of Medical Toxicology and American Academy of Clinical Toxicology Position Statement:

“We have not seen reports of emergency responders developing signs or symptoms consistent with opioid toxicity from incidental contact with opioids. Incidental dermal absorption is unlikely to cause opioid toxicity. For routine handling of drug, nitrile gloves provide sufficient dermal protection. In exceptional circumstances where there are drug particles or droplets suspended in the air, an N95 respirator provides sufficient protection.”

Preventing Occupational Fentanyl and Fentanyl Analog Exposure to Emergency Responders (September, 2017)

Check out: ACMT Statement on Fentanyl Exposure

Read: Op-Ed on New York Times