Ottawa, ON — Every year, April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning, a day when construction industry members across Canada remember those who lost their lives and became ill while working.
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) is calling on the public to continue its efforts in providing safe working environments for employees.
According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), in 2021, there were 1,081 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada, 1,009 of which were male workers, and 72 were female workers. Among these deaths, 18 were young workers aged 15-24.
To commemorate the day, workers are asked to observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. to honour the lives lost and affected due to workplace tragedies. Traditionally, the Canadian flag is flown at half-mast on Parliament Hill and on all federal government buildings.
The National Day of Mourning is just one of the multiple events that lead into Safety and Health Week, which is held from May 1 to 6. In addition, Steps for Life is another event that draws attention to workplace safety.
The walk is organized by Threads of Life and is held annually on the last week of April. Steps for Life helps raise awareness and funds in support of families affected by workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses.
The CCOHS is asking people to participate in the day by using the hashtag #DayofMourning and sharing its YouTube video.