Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured on the Job

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

Environment and Labour Minister David Morse urged all Nova Scotians to pause Saturday to 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.

"This day we remember the victims and their families. We remember too the importance of striving every day to make our working environments as safe and as healthy as possible," said Mr. Morse. "And we recognize the efforts of organized labour for their leadership role in this solemn initiative."

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

"The commitment of staff in this department is just one part of the solution," he said. "Shared responsibility for workplace safety is the foundation of Nova Scotia’s Occupational Health and Safety Act."

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

To broaden the education process, North American Occupational Safety and Health Week is being held May 6-12. Canada, the United States and Mexico are working together to promote safe, healthy workplaces. In Canada, Nova Scotia is leading the way with the implementation of a pilot course this fall in health and safety training for high school students.

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