Did you know that April 28th is a global holiday? Us either. But now that we know, we’re eager to share! The holiday is observed around the world as the International Workers’ Memorial Day.
This day is signified to call into remembrance the lives of workers that were lost, injured, or made unwell due to work. Workers’ Memorial Day gives us an opportunity to reflect and to learn from the past, in the hopes that employers and employees will work together to minimize tragedy from repeating itself in the future.
Started by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) in 1984, Worker’s Memorial Day became internationally recognized in 1989. Trade unions in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America all began organizing events to take place on April 28th.
In 2013, 4,585 workers died on the job. Fortunately, GHS is now beginning to take effect and we hope to see dramatic improvements as the legislation is embraced globally.
In the United States, OSHA estimated that the new Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) would prevent 43 deaths, and 584 injuries and illnesses annually. This amounts to a monetized reduction at about $250 million annually.
In celebration of Workers’ Memorial Day, 2015 – we’re pleased to share with you a powerful quote, and to take a few moments to reflect on the lives lost and the lives that have been changed by dangerous working environments.
“No one should have to sacrifice their life for their livelihood, because a nation built on the dignity of work must provide safe working conditions for its people.”
– Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez
