BC NEWS, RICHMOND

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

On April 28, WorkSafeBC joins workers, employers and communities across British Columbia to observe the National Day of Mourning, a time to remember those who have been killed, injured or suffered illness due to work-related incidents.

In 2025, workplace injuries and illnesses tragically claimed the lives of 138 B.C. workers. Of these workers, 79 died from occupational diseases (36 due to asbestos), with exposures often occurring decades ago. Forty-one workers lost their lives due to traumatic workplace injuries, which included falls from heights, being struck by objects, and being caught in equipment or machinery. Additionally, 18 workers died in motor vehicle incidents.

“Behind every number is a person, a family, coworkers, and a community that are forever changed. The Day of Mourning is a time to remember the workers we’ve lost and reflect on what we can all do to make workplaces safer,” says Todd McDonald, Head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC.

WorkSafeBC is reminding workers and employers that safe and healthy workplaces are a shared responsibility — including both physical and psychological safety. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace, including the training, supervision, and equipment needed to do work safely, and for taking steps to prevent psychological injuries. Workers have the right to refuse unsafe work, to know about hazards, and to participate in workplace health and safety.

The 2026 provincial Day of Mourning ceremony, hosted by BC Federation of Labour, will take place on the steps of the Legislature in Victoria at 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

Regional ceremonies take place across the province each year. A list of local ceremonies in B.C. can be found on dayofmourning.bc.ca.

Visit worksafebc.com for resources on how to keep workplaces healthy and safe.