Each and every day, we show up to work with an expectation that we will be able leave our places of employment and return to the comfort of our homes and loved ones after putting in a hard day’s work. We trust that our employers have put the necessary protocols and protections in place to ensure that this simple expectation is fulfilled day after day after day. Yet, for thousands of Canadians each year, this is not their reality; the cycle of leaving and returning home is broken by a debilitating workplace injury, illness, or even loss of life.
The latest data on workplace injuries and fatalities indicates that in 2023, 1,056 workers died from work-related causes while more than 300,000 workers sustained work-related injuries. The impact of these injuries and deaths is life-altering not only for the affected worker but also their family and their broader community. New research indicates that workplace injuries often change family dynamics, with a partner possibly becoming a caregiver and children taking on more responsibility, and that lost income puts enormous strain on both individuals and families.
Every year, on April 28, workers across the country gather to remember and honour workers who have experienced workplace injury or death and to demand better protections and compensation for all workers.
We make these demands knowing that:
- many industries do not maintain accurate incident reporting, if they maintain any reporting at all, and that some workplaces are chronic violators of workplace safety standards
- many workplace injuries do not make it to the WSIB
- psychological injuries in workplaces are often underreported and undercompensated
This year’s theme, Ensuring Workers Survive and Thrive, reminds us that workplace health and safety is not only about preventing physical injuries and fatalities; it also includes worker mental health. Preventing mental injury starts with meaningful collective action, including honest conversation, practical systemic solutions and shared commitment.
For a list of commemorative events across Canada, visit Day of Mourning Events and Ceremonies 2026 | Canadian Labour Congress