Each year on April 28, people gather at Day of Mourning ceremonies across the province to remember workers who have lost their lives, been injured or suffered illness due to work-related incidents. The solemn occasion, recognized nationally since 1984, is a time for reflection and solidarity among workers, families, employers and communities.
In British Columbia, the commemoration holds special significance. Since 1997, the BC Federation of Labour, the Business Council of British Columbia and WorkSafeBC have come together to host a public ceremony in Vancouver. This year, the event will take place at Jack Poole Plaza on April 28 at 10:30 a.m., accompanied by a live stream for remote participation.
The National Day of Mourning is not only a day of remembrance; it’s a call to action. WorkSafeBC’s latest statistics reveal a sobering reality: in 2023, there were 175 work-related deaths in the province; the year before, 181. Among these cases, more than half (93) were due to occupational diseases, including 48 caused by asbestos exposure.
These numbers underscore the ongoing need for robust safety measures and a proactive approach to workplace health and safety. WorkSafeBC emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture where health and safety are paramount. Employers must engage workers in safety discussions, address concerns promptly, and ensure comprehensive training for all personnel.
“The national Day of Mourning on April 28 is a chance to honour and remember the 175 workers in British Columbia who lost their lives last year due to workplace injury or disease — a day to reflect on those we’ve lost, and to renew our commitment to creating healthy and safe workplaces for everyone,” says Todd McDonald, head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC.
Holding significance for many people, the Day of Mourning is about honouring individual lives and experiences. Each of the 175 workers lost in British Columbia last year represents a unique loss felt deeply by their families, friends and colleagues. Workers with dreams, aspirations and loved ones left behind.
As families, colleagues and employers remember those they have lost, it’s important to remember that we all have responsibilities to ensure workers and workplaces are healthy and safe. Building safer workplaces requires collective effort, with everyone playing a role.
To find a location near you, visit dayofmourning.bc.ca. Turn to worksafebc.com/safetyatwork to find resources that will help you stay safe a