Workers are holding vigils across the country today to honour the National Day of Mourning for workers who have lost their lives, been injured, or become ill due to workplace incidents. Advocates are calling on people to commit to fighting for increased workplace safety as they reflect on those who have been affected.
A study on workplace injury statistics by professor Sean Tucker from the University of Regina and public health consultant Anya Keefe, showed that workplace injury related fatalities rose in seven of 12 jurisdictions in Canada in 2023. Analysing the most recent data from the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada, the study showed that of the jurisdictions with over 100,000 full-time employees, Saskatchewan and Manitoba showed the greatest percentage increase in their 2023 injury fatality rate.
Unifor, Canada’s largest private sector union, said in a statement that workplace injuries are underreported. This leaves many cases of workplace injury or death invisible and unaddressed.
“This day is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing health and safety in every workplace,” the union wrote.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) wanted observers to also acknowledge those impacted who haven’t died.
“Add to these fatalities the 274,022 accepted claims for lost time due to a work-related injury or disease, including 32,861 from workers aged 15-24, and the fact these statistics only include what is reported and accepted by the compensation boards, there is no doubt the total number of workers impacted is even greater.” The union wrote. “And it’s not just these numbers on which we need to reflect. With each worker tragedy there are loved ones, family members, friends and co-workers who are directly affected, left behind, and deeply impacted – their lives also forever changed.”
In the spirit of honouring those who have been affected by workplace injury and death, organizations are reiterating their calls for prevention and for improved health and safety measures.
Prevention Link, an Ontario-based organization focusing on the prevention of occupational injury, illness and disease, has called for increased awareness. They want workers to have a strong grasp of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to workplace health and safety.
The group observed a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on Monday with an aim to honour the fallen, make the injured whole and make work safe.
Beyond reflection and grieving, organizations are also calling for action from all levels of government. CUPW has put forward a list of demands they hope to see governments implement in the coming years.
Demands include the launch of public awareness campaigns on invisible workplace injuries and hazards, legislation for strong air quality standards at indoor workplaces, ensuring chemical safety training and an improvement to coverage for work-related injuries including chronic and psychological injuries.
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