April 28 is the National Day of Mourning, a day to commemorate individuals who lost their lives due to work related injuries or illnesses and to remember those who have been injured on the job.

This year, 37 Saskatchewan workers lost their lives as a result of work related injuries and illnesses, and more than 39,000 workers reported workplace injuries.

“Today in the legislature we honour the sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and spouses who lost their lives as a result of their employment,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “I ask that everyone renew their commitment to health and safety, so together we can prevent these tragedies.”

The Day of Mourning is formalized by the Canadian Labour Congress, and the names of those who died from a workplace injury or illness are inscribed in its national registry. On April 28, the Canadian flag on Parliament Hill and at the Saskatchewan Legislature will fly at half-mast, and employees and employers will observe the day in various ways including lighting candles, donning ribbons and black armbands, and observing moments of silence.

The Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, in partnership with the Workers’ Compensation Board aims to prevent work-related illnesses, injuries and deaths through WorkSafe Saskatchewan.

“Our sympathy goes out to the families who are grieving lost loved ones today,” Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board Chairperson David Eberle said. “As we pay tribute to those who lost their lives, we continue to strive toward the goals of Mission: Zero: zero injuries, zero fatalities, zero suffering.”

To find out more about the National Day of Mourning or Occupational Health and Safety, visit www.lrws.gov.sk.ca. To find out more about WorkSafe Saskatchewan, visit www.worksafesask.ca.