Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured on the Job

LABOUR--Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured on the Job

• ---------------------------------------------------------------Labour Minister Russell MacKinnon urge all Nova Scotians to pause Wednesday and reflect on those who have been killed or injured on the job. April 28 is the National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace.

"We have designated this day to remember the victims and their families," said Mr. MacKinnon. "It is important that we do this, and it is of paramount importance that every day we continue working toward making workplaces the safest possible."

Twenty lives were lost in workplace accidents in Nova Scotia last year, and 29 in 1997. The labour minister called on employers and employees to intensify their health and safety practices.

"The dedication and hard work of our staff is one piece of the puzzle," he said. "The reality is workplace safety is a shared responsibility."

The Occupational Health and Safety Division of the Department of Labour continues to improve training services, education and communication with stakeholders.

"We believe that our new occupational safety general regulations will be of an immense assistance in our efforts to promote workplace safety," Mr. MacKinnon said.

To broaden the education process, North American Occupational Safety and Health Week is being held May 17-23. Canada, the United States and Mexico are working together to promote safe, healthy workplaces.

Nova Scotians needing information or support can contact the Occupational Health and Safety Division at 1-800-952-2687 or 1-800-9LABOUR.