Trade workers highly represented in toxic drug deaths: report

Isolated, inhospitable work environments key factors in the issue, says expert

Workers in trades, transport, and equipment operation accounted for 21 per cent of deaths on average between 2022 and last year, according to new data released by the coroner’s service.

Researchers say several factors contribute to substance use in these industries, including isolated or inhospitable work environments and the physically demanding nature of the jobs, which often lead to high rates of work-related pain and injury, said Lindsey Richarson, Canada Research chair in health equity, in a CBC report.

In the same report, Trevor Botkin, a former tradesman who now provides mental health support to others in the industry, described how his own substance use escalated as his mental health declined. He said