More than 1,000 Canadian workers died from work-related causes in 2023, as organizations and workers across the country mark the National Day of Mourning on April 28.
The annual observance commemorates workers who have lost their lives, suffered injuries or developed illnesses due to workplace incidents, while reinforcing commitments to improving occupational health and safety.
According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), 1,057 workplace fatalities were recorded last year, including 29 young workers aged 15-24. Additionally, 274,022 claims for lost time due to work-related injury or disease were accepted, with 32,861 involving young workers.
“These statistics only include what is reported and accepted by compensation boards, so the total number of workers impacted is likely even greater,” said the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).
History of remembrance
The Day of Mourning was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1983. Eight years later, Parliament passed the Workers Mourning Day Act, making April 28 an official day of observance.
The day has since spread to more than 100 countries worldwide and is recognized as Workers’ Memorial Day by the International Labour Organisation and the International Trade Union Confederation.
How organizations observe the day
On April 28, the Canadian flag flies at half-mast on Parliament Hill and all federal government buildings.
Employers and workers typically observe the day through various commemorative activities, including candle lighting ceremonies, wreath-laying, wearing commemorative pins or black armbands, and pausing for moments of silence.
“As much as this is a day to remember those who have lost their lives, it is also a call to protect the living and make work a place where people are safe and can thrive,” said CCOHS.
Organizations and individuals are encouraged to hold or support events or observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on the day. Many workplaces play commemorative videos or share social media content to promote awareness.
CCOHS said that workplace tragedies affect not only the workers directly involved but also their loved ones, family members, friends and co-workers — leaving lasting impacts that forever change lives.
For more information about the commemoration, including videos, social media assets, posters, and a podcast visit https://www.ccohs.ca/events/mourning
