"April 28, the National Day of Mourning, is a very important but somber day as we remember those workers who were killed, injured or who became ill at their workplaces," said Roberta Dugas, chair of WorkSafeNB’s board of directors. "I ask all New Brunswickers to look on this day as a time not only to remember those workers, but as a day to reaffirm our commitment to workplace safety," she said.
"Last year, 12 workers lost their lives in work-related incidents, and more than 12,000 were injured, while so far this year two workers have died. This is clearly unacceptable. But, unfortunately, 57% of New Brunswickers view workplace injuries as inevitable. By always keeping safety in mind we can change these attitudes," Dugas said.
The National Day of Mourning was first observed in Canada in 1984. April 28 was chosen as the day of remembrance because it was the day the third reading took place for the first comprehensive Worker’s Compensation Act (Ontario 1914) in Canada. Today, the Day of Mourning is observed in more than 100 countries worldwide.
"We ask that everyone find a meaningful way to mark this year’s Day of Mourning, and continue to find ways to improve workplace safety. By doing this you honour the memory of those workers killed and injured every day, not only on the Day of Mourning."
WorkSafeNB suggests that on April 28 you wear a black ribbon or pin (available in many workplaces); take part in flag lowering at your workplace; or attend ceremonies being held at various locations around the province. Pay tribute to those present and those lost in New Brunswick workplaces with a moment’s silence. For more information on Day of Mourning activities, visit the WorkSafeNB website at www.worksafenb.ca.