Written by Drew Iverson, Director, Health and Safety, Pinchin Ltd.
Sunday, April 28th is World Day for Safety & Health at Work. Also known as the National Day of Mourning and Workers’ Memorial Day, it is a day for us to remember the many workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness as a result of work-related incidents, and to pay our respects to the many families and friends who have been deeply affected by these tragedies.
It is also a day for us to draw attention to the prevention of occupational injuries and illnesses, raise awareness of new and developing issues affecting workplace health & safety, and renew our commitment to health & safety, to prevent future workplace tragedies.
The National Day of Mourning has been held annually across Canada since 1984 and is currently recognized in about 100 countries worldwide.
Worker Safety Statistics
Each year, millions of workers around the world lose their lives on the job, and many more suffer illnesses and injuries in Canada and the United States. Statistics from the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) in Canada and the US Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) tell us that in 2022:
- There were 993 workplace fatalities in Canada and 5,486 workplace fatalities in the US. Among this total were 452 young workers aged 15-24.
- In Canada, 348,747 claims were made and accepted for lost time injury or disease. In the US, this number is over 1,000,000 injured or ill employees. Considering that many injuries and illnesses are never reported, the number of workers impacted by serious workplace injuries and illnesses is likely even higher.
Simcoe Park ‘Worker’s Monument’ – Toronto, Ontario
Let’s Make A Difference: Workplace Safety Matters
April 28 is not only a day of remembrance – it is also a day to renew your commitment to safety and health in the workplace. Here are some ways you can participate:
Pause and take a few minutes to consider what matters most to you, and your personal reasons for putting safety first, every day.
Make a pledge to health & safety. Use an example or develop your own.
Spread the word! Talk about World Day for Safety & Health at Work to raise awareness of the issue of occupational health and safety.
By working together, we can prevent workplace illnesses, injuries, and deaths. We all have the right to return home safe and healthy at the end of the day.
MEET THE PINCHIN TEAM
Director, Health and Safety
Manager, Corporate Health & Safety
If your organization needs help developing workplace health & safety processes or want to be sure your current plan is sufficient to protect your workers, please contact our local Pinchin office or call us toll-free at 1-855-PINCHIN (746.2446).
