Day of Mourning – April 28

Why We Work Safely

We work safely for ourselves, our coworkers, our friends, and our families.

We work safely because an accident or illness not only affects us, but them.

When we’re rushing, tired, or not paying attention, we need to stop and think about the people in our lives. Stop and think about what could happen—not just for us, but for them.

Across Canada, there were 1,057 workplace fatalities in 2023. There were also 274,022 claims approved for time lost due to a work-related injury or illness. The true number of workers impacted is undoubtedly far greater, since these figures include only what is accepted by compensation boards.*

April 28 is the International Day of Mourning, a day to commemorate those whose lives have been forever changed by a workplace accident or illness.

Let’s remember those we’ve lost and work safely for ourselves and those around us. 

*Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada

Show your support

Show your commitment to accident prevention by making workplace health and safety your top priority every day.

CLAC encourages its members and signatory employers to hold a Day of Mourning event. It would be appropriate to pause for a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on April 28. You may also choose to light candles, lay a wreath, or wear commemorative stickers, pins, ribbons, or black armbands.

You can also mark the day by watching “Before Days End,” a short video about the impacts of workplace tragedies.

Threads of Life Vigil – April 28

We invite you to participate in a brief online ceremony being held by our partner Threads of Life. This Canadian registered charity is dedicated to supporting families after a workplace fatality, injury, or occupational disease. The ceremony is a chance to hear people share their experiences. Join with other Canadians to light a candle, and recommit to preventing tragedies.

Visit the Threads of Life website (threadsoflife.ca) to register