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. It commemorates workers who have been killed, injured or suffered illness due to workplace related hazards and incidents. The Day of Mourning has since spread to about 80 countries around the world.
In 2014, 919 workplace deaths were recorded in Canada, up from 902 the previous year. This represents more than 2.5 deaths every single day. In the 20 year period from 1995 to 2014, 18,039 people lost their lives due to work-related causes (an average of 918 deaths per year).
Typically the Canadian flag on Parliament Hill is flown at half-mast, and workers and employees observe this day in various ways including lighting candles, donning ribbons and black armbands, and observing moments of silence.
Please commemorate the National Day of Mourning at your workplace on April 28. If you require posters or additional information, please contact Auspice Safety Inc. at info@auspicesafety.com