Book I: Combating communicable diseases

The national harm reduction guidelines for drug users referred to in article L. 3121-5 are reproduced in appendix 31-2 to this code.

Drug users’ harm reduction support centres (centres d’accueil et d’accompagnement à la réduction des risques pour usagers de drogues) provide : 1° Group and individual reception, information and personalised advice for drug users; 2° Supporting users in accessing care, including : a) Help with hygiene and access to essential care, preferably provided on the premises; b) Referral to specialist or mainstream care; c) Encouraging screening for transmissible infections; 3° Supporting…

The centres are involved in drug and addiction monitoring, research, prevention and training on changes in user practices.

The centres may be run by health establishments that also run a centre for addiction care, support and prevention.

The possession, control, management and dispensing of medicines strictly related to the harm reduction mission for drug users, the list of which is set by order of the Minister for Health, are carried out by salaried staff working in the harm reduction support centre for drug users. The centre’s volunteer staff may dispense these medicines. Staff, whether salaried or voluntary, are required to undergo prior training, provided by an approved…