Organizations To Host Events for Workers’ Memorial Day
Workers’ Memorial Day, held on April 28, honors those who lost their lives while working.
- By Alex Saurman
- Apr 26, 2022
In 2020, thousands of workers lost their lives while working. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 4,700 workers suffered fatal injuries while on the job site in 2020. That means one worker died every 111 minutes.
This week, many organizations will recognize Workers' Memorial Day on April 28. Started in 1970, this is a day to remember those who lost their lives while working. It's also a time to talk about what changes can be made to help worksites be safer.
Many organizations will be hosting both in-person and virtual events on Workers' Memorial Day. OSHA provides a list of these events by state here. The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), a federation of multiple labor unions representing more than 12 million workers, also has materials for employers and organizations to use, available in English and Spanish. They include a list of actions people can take, such as holding an event with families and workers or hosting a workshop.
According to a press release, OSHA, along with Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, will hold an online ceremony featuring personal stories from workers and families who lost loved ones.
“Workers Memorial Day allows us to remember those whose lives were claimed by their jobs, in too many instances, because required safety precautions were not taken to prevent tragedy,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker in the press release. “Every year, thousands of workers are unable to return home to their families and their communities because workplace safety and health were overlooked. We must never underestimate the importance of ensuring OSHA requirements are met and followed as the law requires. As we are sadly reminded again, peoples’ lives depend on it.”
OSHA and United Support and Memorial for Workplace Fatalities also plan to host an event in Nebraska and will sign an alliance to raise awareness of workplace safety, according to another press release. Later that night, a candlelight vigil will be held.
About the Author
Alex Saurman is a former Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety,who has since joined OH&S’s client services team. She continues to work closely with OH&S’s editorial team and contributes to the magazine.