Every year on April 28th communities across Canada take a moment to pause and remember those who were injured, disabled, or who have lost their lives to work-related incidents or occupational illness.
In Alberta, ceremonies for the National Day of Mourning are coordinated by each of the ACSA’s eight Regional Safety Committees. To honour the occasion, people from the local communities respond by attending these events and paying their respects.
The Day of Mourning is not only a way to commemorate others, but to remind all of us still working in the construction industry that we must always remain vigilant and safe.
In 2017, Alberta lost 166 men and women to a work-related incident or occupational illness, the majority of whom (52 per cent) lost their lives to an occupational illness such as mesothelioma or asbestosis.
Almost all workplace loss is preventable by taking the appropriate education and training, and practicing safe work practices and procedures to protect ourselves and others. Together, through our community of safety leaders, we can work toward a safer workplace for all Albertans.
Go to our special Day of Mourning webpage to learn more about Day of Mourning ceremonies in your community. Or, get in touch with your local RSC to find out more about what you can to do to volunteer to help keep those around you safe in the workplace.
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