April 8, 2011
National Day of Mourning - April 28
Commemorating workers whose lives have been lost or injured in the workplace
In 2009, 939 workplace deaths were "officially" recorded in Canada. This represents more than 2.57 deaths every single day. In the seventeen year period from 1993 to 2009, 15,129 people lost their lives due to work-related causes (an average of 889 deaths per year). Owners, contractors and Boilermakers everywhere must do their part to prevent workplace deaths, illnesses and injuries.
The National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28, was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, eight years after the day of remembrance was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress. The Day of Mourning has since spread to about 80 countries around the world and has been adopted by the AFL-CIO and the International Confederation of Free Trade.
The Canadian flag on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast. Workers will light candles, don ribbons and black armbands and observe moments of silence in ceremonies around the country.
Please observe a moment of silence on April 28th to remember our Brothers and Sisters who have been injured or died as a result of their employment and make a continued commitment to health and safety.