Canadians held ceremonies in communities across the country on Sunday to
remember workers who were killed, injured or developed a serious illness
while on the job.
The Day of Mourning is a nationally recognized day in Canada that is
commemorated on April 28 each year.
Workplace-related deaths and injuries continue to be a major concern in
Canada. In 2011, there were 919 fatalities and more than 249,500 lost time
injuries.
We should all take the time to acknowledge the lives lost and do our part by
speaking up when something unsafe is happening in the workplace, said Robert
Blakely, director of Canadian Affairs with the Building & Construction
Trades Department, in a media release.
“Our trades go to work every day with the expectation of returning home to
their families,” he said.
The Day of Mourning is also an opportunity to promote workplace safety.
“Because no one needs to die for a job and the Day is an opportunity to
refocus on our workplace habits,” said Darrell Laboucan, general
vice-president for the International Association of Bridge Structural and
Ornamental Ironworkers.
Skilled trades stop across Canada stop to reflect by improving safety
routines.
“Worker safety must be on everyone’s mind,” said Jim Smith, international
vice-president of Canada for the United Brotherhood of Carpenters.
“Collaboration with provincial regulators is moving us in the right
direction in terms of construction worker safety.”
