Enhancing opioid overdose preparedness in Commonwealth law enforcement and intelligence operations
Background
People who conceal illicit drugs internally face a significant risk of fatal overdose if a drug packet ruptures. In high-risk operational environments such as screening and investigative activities, officers and first responders must be prepared to respond quickly to opioid exposure and overdose events.
Since 2020, Aspen Medical has supported Commonwealth law enforcement and intelligence agencies by supplying bespoke and fit-for-purpose opioid overdose response first aid kits and training. This helps ensure frontline operators are appropriately skilled in responding to carfentanil contact and opioid overdoses.
Approach
Aspen Medical provides a comprehensive naloxone training and supply solution, including:
- naloxone first aid kits and nasal spray units
- eLearning and face-to-face training for safe and effective overdose response
- deployment of services across all Australian capital cities
- ongoing support and consultation with operational leaders to ensure training relevance and kit readiness.
To date, more than 300 front line operators have been trained under the program. The training includes opioid awareness, signs and symptoms of overdose, safe administration of naloxone and post-incident protocols.
Results
- Trained more than 300 operators.
- National delivery covering all Australian capital cities.
- No reported overdose incidents requiring naloxone intervention to date.
- Improved officer confidence and capability in handling potential opioid-related emergencies.
- Rapid kit distribution and scalable support tailored to operational requirements.
Outcome
Aspen Medical’s naloxone support program is helping mitigate the risk of opioid exposure for Australian law enforcement and intelligence personnel. The combination of high-quality training and reliable supply of naloxone kits ensures front-line teams are equipped to act swiftly and safely in life-threatening scenarios.