The National Day of Mourning is observed annually on April 28 to remember those who have died, been injured, or suffered illness in the workplace. On this day, we also honour the many families and friends who have been deeply affected by these tragedies.
The Canadian Labour Congress proclaimed April 28, 1984, as the first Day of Mourning, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of Ontario approving the first Workers’ Compensation Act in 1914. The Day of Mourning was officially enshrined in national legislation by an Act of Parliament on February 1, 1991. Since then, the Day of Mourning has gained recognition and momentum, and is now marked in over 100 countries around the world.
The National Day of Mourning serves as a reminder that all workplaces should be healthy and safe and raises awareness of how workplace incidents could have been preventable. At PSHSA, our vision of enabling a healthier and safer tomorrow for Ontario's Public Sector Community is the very foundation of our work.
We want to ensure that everyone can make it home safely at the end of each working day. By working together, we can prevent worker injuries, illnesses and deaths before they occur.
What You Can Do
Pledge your commitment to health and safety
Everyone is welcome to make a pledge to ensure all workers make it home healthy and safe at the end of each day.
Pledge your commitment today and tell us how you are keeping your workplace safe.
Light a candle
Join us in lighting a digital candle in recognition of these workers and their families, friends and colleagues.
Listen, remember, reflect
Take today to honour the lives lost or injured by listening to victims’ stories, like those of Adam Sura, Leo Pitruzzella and Darcy Cromwell and the families affected by tragedies like Josh Rene.
By hearing their stories and honouring their memory, we can reflect on our own experiences and what more we can do to ensure no one else has to suffer similar tragedies.
Attend Day of Mourning ceremonies and tributes
Throughout Ontario, various events will be happening to recognize this day. Find an event near you. We also encourage you to check out local businesses in your area that may also be hosting events in honour of the Day of Mourning.
Improve workplace health and safety
Public Services Health & Safety Association (PSHSA) is committed to creating safe work environments and promoting healthy workers in Ontario. By staying ahead of emerging needs, knowledge and trends, and developing forward-thinking occupational health and safety solutions, we are continuously innovating to identify better ways to educate, inform and inspire better workplaces. Protect your workplace today to prevent these tragedies from happening.
More ways to recognize the National Day of Mourning
- Wear black and yellow in honour of the lives lost.
- Check-in with a safety talk – have a conversation with your team about health and safety in the workplace, provide necessary information on workplace hazards, review current policies and practices, and encourage sharing of thoughts or concerns.
- Understand current legislation.
- Effectively communicate and understand health and safety policies and work procedures.
- Bring forward your health and safety concerns, identify hazards and report incidents in a timely manner.
- Step up as a Health and Safety Champion within the workplace.
More Resources
Threads of Life
Threads of Life is a registered charity dedicated to supporting families after a workplace fatality, life-altering injury or occupational disease through various programs, forums, volunteer and fundraising opportunities and more. Join PSHSA as a regular donor to support families whose lives have been forever changed by workplace tragedies.
Coming up soon: Register for a Steps for Life fundraising walk with Threads of Life happening near you!
Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
The WSIB has various resources in a National Day of Mourning toolkit for businesses to use. Here you will find backgrounds, banners and more. Also, stay tuned for new videos and other content.
April 26th, 2024
