Today marks the 8th year of the #RanaPlaza collapse that claimed the lives of 1,138 garment workers in #Bangladesh. Workers do not deserve to die because of work. Recognise occupational health & safety as a fundamental right! #SaveLivesAtWork #IWMD21 pic.twitter.com/t2TvPqt0Iu
— ITUC-Asia Pacific (@itucasiapacific) April 24, 2021
“Incredibly moving seeing the names and photos being added to this memorial page” says Shelly Asquith of TUC. more
Incredibly moving seeing the names and photos being added to this memorial page ?
As we approach Workers’ Memorial Day, we remember every person who lost their lives because of their job.
And we fight to make work safe ✊ #IWMD21Have a look: https://t.co/1rKOs8LQWh
— Shelly Asquith (@ShellyAsquith) April 19, 2021
The National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28, is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness on the job. This annual event was initiated by the labour movement 37 years ago to increase awareness of on-the-job injuries and fatal workplace accidents. This day of remembrance was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991, six years after it was launched by the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) in 1985.
Although the National Day of Mourning is now recognized in more than 100 countries, including Canada, last year underscored that there is still a lot of work to accomplish in order to improve workers’ safety.
In the past year, the way we live and work greatly changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of Canadian workers have had to cope with reduced work hours or modified schedules, or been compelled to stay at home due to childcare issues, illness, or other personal challenges stemming from government-mandated emergency measures. Yet, others have had to continue working in spite of the persistent danger this virus represents.
We had to adapt the way we work, using personal protective equipment adapted to our different activities throughout the country. Workers of various sectors such as the postal service, put their health and safety at risk on a daily basis to ensure that Canadians can get through these unprecedented times. And all the while trying their best to take care of their own well-being and mental health.
This Wednesday, April 28, 2021, it is important that, wherever we are, we take the time to remember our brothers and sisters who have endured hardships or who tragically did not survive this terrible virus. Let us also remember those who died, suffered injuries or became disabled while on duty. We must all commit to continuing the struggle to force employers and governments to fulfill their obligation to make every workplace a safe and healthy one. We must also continue seeking stronger health and safety standards and protection, and better enforcement in our workplaces.
AN INJURY TO ONE IS AN INJURY TO ALL!
In solidarity,
Marc Roussel
National Union Representative – Health and Safety
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https://www.cupw.ca/en/national-day-mourning-%E2%80%93-april-28-2021-cupw-shows-respect
Two annual events taking place on 28 April serve as a reminder of the importance of the occupational safety and health profession in protecting workers.
On International Workers’ Memorial Day, organised by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), we remember those who have lost their lives or suffered life-changing injuries or illness at work.
These tragedies could have been prevented. This is why 28 April also marks World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which raises awareness of actions to prevent injury and death at work. It is an initiative of the International Labour Organization, which this year is focusing on strategies to strengthen national occupational safety and health systems to build resilience, to face crises now and in the future. IOSH’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a systematic approach to protecting workers: preparedness is the key to prevention.
Jimmy Quinn, President of IOSH, said: “Our members – occupational safety and health professionals – have had a crucial role in responding to the pandemic. They’ve helped to ensure that safe practices and procedures have been introduced and implemented in the workplace to protect workers, customers and suppliers. If ever there was a time for our members to demonstrate the value of their knowledge, skills and experience, it has been now. IOSH has supported them by producing and sharing up-to-date guidance, continuing to be a trusted and authoritative source of information throughout the pandemic.
“Yet we also remember that even before the pandemic 2.78 million people were dying each year from work-related illness and injury. These deaths are even more tragic because they are preventable.”
The following figures from the ITUC show the scale of the challenges in protecting people at work:
Jimmy added: “These shocking facts remind us of the need to redouble our efforts with governments, business and labour to bring about radical change in how work is organised. Work should support life. It should not do the opposite – endanger life. This is the overarching message from IOSH on this day of remembrance and motivation to protect workers around the world.
“IOSH has always advocated that the best approach is prevention first. Anticipating and preparing for risks requires investment in and good management of resilient occupational safety and health systems. It also requires a competent, trained and experienced occupational safety and health profession.”
IOSH has been added to the register of participants in the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, aligning our strategy to universal principles on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. We are committed to being an exemplar of sustainability in supporting the health, safety and wellbeing of all workers.
IOSH is encouraging members and others to observe a minute’s silence at 11am BST on 28 April to pay tribute to those who have died or suffered life-changing injuries or illness at work.
https://iosh.com/more/news-listing/work-should-support-life/
CTSP (Mauritius) held a virtual activity on Saturday 24 April. The activity had a series of other connected activities, ie. local and national level:
Jane Ragoo
General Secretary – CTSP (Mauritius) Confédération des Travailleurs des Secteurs Publique et Privé
5 Nalla Street (Ex 6-10), Elias Street – Rose Hill, Republic of Mauritius
April 28 is International Workers’ Memorial Day or Workers’ Mourning Day. This is the international day of remembrance and action for workers killed, disabled, injured or made unwell by their work.
Unions Tasmania Event (Hobart) – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
1pm, Franklin Square, Hobart
We invite the community to join with unions, families, and workers to commemorate International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD). This important day is marked annually around the world on April 28, an international day of remembrance and action for workers killed, disabled, injured, or made unwell by their work.
One death at work is one too many. Every worker has the right to go to work and come home safely.
Come along to pay your respects to those that didn’t make it home and join our calls for improved workplace safety laws in Tasmania.
Registration is not essential, but check in for COVID purposes will occur at the event.
1pm
More information can be found here.
Unions Tasmania Event (Launceston) – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
8am, Workers’ Memorial Park, Elizabeth Gardens on Invermay Rd (near UTAS Stadium), Launceston
We invite the community to join with unions, families, and workers to commemorate International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD). This important day is marked annually around the world on April 28, an international day of remembrance and action for workers killed, disabled, injured, or made unwell by their work.
One death at work is one too many. Every worker has the right to go to work and come home safely.
Come along to pay your respects to those that didn’t make it home and join our calls for improved workplace safety laws in Tasmania.
Registration is not essential, but check in for COVID purposes will occur at the event.
8am – BBQ breakfast provided.
More information can be found here.
Unions WA Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
10.30am, Solidarity Park, Harvest Terrace, West Perth
Come and remember those we’ve lost and fight for a fair and safe workplace for all.
Hosted by CFMEU WA, CPSU/CSA, AWU WA Branch, Unions WA.
10.30am
More information can be found here.
VTHC Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
10.30am, Victorian Trades Hall, 54 Victoria St, South Carlton, and online
Every year, Victorian Trades Hall Council hosts a memorial service to remember those Victorians who lost their lives at work.
Please join us on the 28th of April for International Workers Memorial Day 2021 to commemorate the workers we’ve lost in the past year.
The ceremony will include a minute’s silence at 11am and an opportunity to lay wreaths.
This event is a COVID safe event and numbers are capped, so RSVPs (and masks) are essential. The memorial service will be held in person at Trades Hall, however this is subject to change pending COVID conditions.
The event will also be broadcast live through the VTHC facebook page.
Remember the dead and fight like hell for the living.
10.30am – 11.15am
RSVP here.
Unions NT Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
11am-12.30pm – Raintree Park, Darwin
We invite you all for a day of remembrance for those that went to work, never to return.
We welcome all those affected by the loss of a loved one or simply anyone that wishes to mourn the dead and fight for the living!
Here in the NT, we have a 5 year (2014-2019) average of 4 work-related deaths a year – Safework.
Raintree Park, Darwin.
11am-12.30pm.
More information can be found here.
Unions NSW Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
11.55am – Online
You are invited to our online International Day of Mourning service with families and friends who have lost loved ones as a result of workplace incidents or occupational illnesses at work.
RSVP for a reminder text msg before the service starts.
The service provides everyone in NSW with the opportunity to attend and to ensure we are COVID safe, we will be commemorating the 2021 International Day of Mourning online.
We would like you to join the families and their friends to our online service at 11.55am (for a 12pm start) on Wednesday, 28 April 2021 via the International Day of Mourning website at: https://www.idm2021.com.au/
The thirty-minute service will contain messages from Unions NSW, members of the NSW Parliament, religious representatives and representatives from family members who have lost a loved one.
You will be able to interact and offer your condolences during the online service. The platform which we will be using will allow you to post your message on the day.
For more information or if you have trouble accessing the website, please email Mary at myaager@unionsnsw.org.au or contact her by phone on 0408 931 899. On behalf of Unions NSW & supported by the NSW Government.
11.55am
SA Unions Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
12pm, Steps of Parliament House, North Terrace, Adelaide
28th of April is International Workers’ Memorial Day. Come join us on the Steps of Parliament House to rally and show support. We will remember those whose lives have been lost at work and advocate for changes to Work Health and Safety Laws.
The rally will highlight; justice for injured or killed workers and the need for industrial manslaughter laws; protecting workplace mental health (act on suicides and sexual harassment); and improved safety rights for workers and their Representatives.
More information can be found here.
12pm
QCU Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
11am-12pm, Emma Miller Place, Roma St, Brisbane
Acknowledging the 17,000 frontline health workers lost globally during COVID and every worker who has died at work.
Further information can be found here.
11am-12pm
Unions ACT Event – International Workers’ Memorial Day
28 April 2021
9am-9.45am, National Workers Memorial, Parkes, Canberra
Mourn the Dead
Fight Like Hell for the Living
International Workers Memorial Day is the day we remember the workers who were killed and injured at work.
Join us at the National Workers Memorial in Parkes, on 28 April at 9am for a ceremony.
More information can be found here.
https://www.actu.org.au/ohs/events
News Release from Edinburgh Trade Union Council and Scottish Hazards (23 April 2021)
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Edinburgh Trade Union Council and Scottish Hazards are organising activities to mark this year’s International Workers Memorial Day.
We are calling on people to observe a minutes silence at 11am at your workplace whether at home or elsewhere.
Wreaths and flowers will be laid at the Memorial Tree and Plaque in West Princes Street Gardens. Fifteen Edinburgh trade union organisations will lay wreaths including NUJ, UNISON, FBU,UCU, UNITE and EIS branches between 12 and 2pm.
Floral tributes will also be laid by the Protest in Harmony choir, Migrant Pride and Scottish Hazards. We are pleased that the Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Council will lay a wreath at 12.30pm.
Individuals can lay tributes in honour of loved ones who passed away during the COVID pandemic.
To mark the day the City of Edinburgh Council will lower its flags to half mast. Historic Environment Scotland will light up Edinburgh Castle in purple between dusk and midnight.
Lord Provost Frank Ross said:
“It will be my honour to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Edinburgh and the Council to remember colleagues, friends, and relatives who have died, been injured or made ill by their work.
“Each year we remember the sacrifices of workers across the world and this year has special significance because of the ongoing pandemic. Key workers continue to work on the frontlines caring for those suffering from coronavirus or delivering vital public services putting their own lives at risk. It is vital that we all take a moment to think about those who are no longer with us and honour their memory.
“The Council has a long-standing commitment to marking International Workers’ Memorial Day, we recognise the importance of safe and healthy working conditions and we are fully committed to working towards this for our own employees and for all workers in the city.”
Kathy Jenkins, Secretary of Scottish Hazards said: “Workers Memorial Day is a day for all of us to remember those who have died through work and to pledge again our commitment to fight for improved health and safety for all workers. This is a truly international day which will be commemorated in well over 100 countries, many marking this day despite oppression and war. Countries, from Argentina and Albania through Iraq and indonesia, Myanmar, Palestine and the Phillipines to Venezuela and Zimbabwe.
The international theme for this year is “ Health and Safety is a fundamental human right” and our related Scottish theme “Fighting for the right to health and safety for all Scottish workers, today and everyday”
For workers and communities in Scotland and around the world, this year’s workers’ memorial day is especially poignant, as we remember all of those who have died from Covid-19 and, in particular the many thousands who contracted the virus through work – often in the service of others.”
For further information contact Des Loughney, Secretary of Edinburgh Trade Union Council at this email address or 07734012536.
With 1 in 3 people working from home, and those at the workplace taking special precautions, COVID-19 shows the life and death importance of health and safety at work.
Among the 530,000 deaths from COVID-19 in the European Union* are uncounted thousands of workers who got it at work. We mourn their loss and offer condolences and solidarity to loved ones. We also remember those who died in the last year from work-related cancer and other illness and accidents at work: over 100,000 in Europe alone.
While vaccination offers hope, health and safety must remain an absolute priority in the coming months and beyond. Health and safety are not gifts from the authorities or a good employer: health and safety at work is YOUR right. A right that unions fight for!
In the European Union ‘Every worker has the right to working conditions which respect his or her health, safety and dignity’**. EU law***
It means employers are responsible for obvious risks such as exposure to dangerous substances, heavy lifting or repetitive movements, as well as other less widely acknowledged risks such as work-related stress, harassment and bullying.
Despite clear rights, health and safety is far from a reality for all workers. One in three workers in Bulgarian, Slovakia and Spain and almost half in Czechia and Greece who must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) at work are only provided it sometimes or not at all. During the COVID crisis many essential workers, among which women are overrepresented in the care and cleaning sectors, have not had adequate PPE. The same applies to precarious workers, whose limited social protection gives them no choice but to continue working, even if they have coronavirus symptoms.
Many workers have not been able to socially distance. Homeworking carries its own risks like increased domestic violence (up by a third in some EU countries during lockdown), longer hours unable to disconnect, and a lack of appropriate equipment at home. The growth of workers in digital platforms leaves increasing numbers of workers without proper protective equipment – only 35% of platform workers say their platform had taken measures to assist them in the pandemic.
Trade unions and safety representatives play a vital role in ensuring health and safety. Any working person who cares about their own health and safety at work should join a union and find out if they have a safety representative. A trade union can help to ensure that a safety representative is appointed and listened to by management.
Trade unions fight for better health and safety in the workplace and in law. Unions have obtained from the EU occupational exposure limits for many cancer-causing substances and are fighting to get tougher limits and for more substances. Unions are seeking stronger legal obligations on employers to tackle stress and back pain (and other so-called musculo-skeletal disorders). Unions are also pushing for the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to implement its centennial conference decision in 2019 to make occupational safety and health a fundamental right at work.
Health and safety are not just for Workers Memorial Day or even the pandemic – it’s your right and for life – literally!
*As of 25 February 2021
**Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, art. 31
***Occupational Health and Safety Framework Directive,1989
