The union representing workers at Sarnia Jail says multiple overdoses Friday highlight the need for increased safety measures at Ontario's correctional facilities.
Three inmates and three jail guards were taken to Bluewater Health after coming into contact with a powdered opioid.
OPSEU Local 128 President Joel Bissonette said additional training and other tools would greatly help.
"We have scanners currently but, there are other tools, things like ion scanners and swab tests where you can see if something has been in contact with an illicit drug that other agencies use," said Bissonnette. "We believe they would be beneficial for us as well. Any additional tool that we can get, we would definitely appreciate."
Bissonnette said the three guards who were exposed are all home and okay. They were discharged from hospital within 24 hours.
He said while staffing levels at the 100-bed jail are adequate, more workers for increased monitoring would be beneficial.
Provincially, he said they've been pushing for increased funding and will continue to do so.
Local 128 represents about 80 staff at Sarnia Jail.
Meanwhile, Bluewater Health is holding a forum about drugs, overdoses, and addictions. It's taking place on Thursday evening from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Unifor Local 914 hall at 900 Devine St. It will be interactive with those attending having a chance to ask questions.
