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It’s also a time to reflect on the very real human impact behind every injury or fatality—families who never saw their loved ones return home, coworkers forever changed by tragedy, and communities left to cope with loss. By acknowledging these stories, we strengthen our resolve to prevent future harm. The Day of Mourning is not only about memory—it’s about responsibility, and about ensuring that every worker in Calgary has the right to a safe and healthy workplace.
Where It All Began: A Canadian Legacy
The National Day of Mourning is deeply rooted in Canada’s labour history and stands as a testament to the efforts of workers’ advocates who demanded safer conditions long before modern OH&S laws existed.
In 1984, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC)—representing over 3 million workers—declared April 28 a national day of remembrance for those who had lost their lives or health as a result of their work. The chosen date holds particular significance: it commemorates the passing of the Workers’ Compensation Act in Ontario in 1914, which was one of the first pieces of legislation in Canada designed to support injured workers and acknowledge the risks of industrial labour.
The call to remember wasn’t just symbolic. It was designed to inspire reflection, education, and most importantly, action. By 1991, the federal government officially recognized April 28 as the National Day of Mourning, and it is now embedded in both public and private workplace calendars across the country.
What began as a grassroots effort by workers and unions has since grown into a globally recognized movement. More than 100 countries now observe some form of Workers’ Memorial Day or Day of Mourning, often using Canada’s model as the foundation.
This legacy is something we can all take pride in—but it also comes with a responsibility: to continue building a future where no one has to sacrifice their health or life just to earn a living.
👉 Learn more at: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/day-mourning.html
👉 Canadian Labour Congress: https://canadianlabour.ca/events/day-of-mourning/
The Reality in Alberta
Despite progress in occupational health and safety practices, workplace injuries and fatalities remain a serious concern. According to Alberta’s Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB), 165 people in Alberta died in 2022 due to workplace incidents or occupational illnesses.
Behind every statistic is a family, a co-worker, and a community left grieving. These aren’t just numbers—they are lives forever changed.
What Should Calgary Businesses Do?
As a Calgary-based employer, recognizing the Day of Mourning can be a meaningful way to both reflect and lead by example. It’s also a practical opportunity to review and improve your safety systems.
Here are five impactful actions your business can take:
- Hold a Moment of Silence
At 11 a.m. on April 28, pause operations to observe a minute of silence in memory of those lost or injured at work.
- Acknowledge the Day in Communications
Send an internal message to your staff, post on your company intranet, or include a safety message in your morning meeting.
- Reinforce the Importance of Reporting
Encourage your teams to report hazards and near-misses. Remind them that early intervention saves lives.
- Review Your OH&S Program
Use this day as a checkpoint. Are your hazard assessments current? Are your procedures being followed? Are your teams receiving regular safety training?
- Engage a Safety Consultant
If you’re not sure where your safety program stands, or if you need help identifying gaps—partner with a professional.
How we help
How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help
At Calgary Safety Consultants, we work with businesses of all sizes across Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan to strengthen their safety programs and improve workplace culture. The National Day of Mourning aligns with our mission to prevent tragedies before they happen.
We can help you:
✅ Develop or refresh your OH&S program
✅ Conduct site-specific hazard assessments
✅ Facilitate Day of Mourning toolbox talks or team safety moments
✅ Provide training on incident reporting, hazard recognition, and leadership in safety
✅ Navigate compliance with Alberta OHS legislation, COR/SECOR requirements, and more
Whether you’re looking to start fresh or take your safety culture to the next level, we’re here to help.
Final Thoughts
April 28 is more than a date—it’s a responsibility. One that reminds us why we invest time and resources into building safer workplaces: to protect the people who make our businesses possible.
This year, let the National Day of Mourning be a turning point. Reflect on what safety means in your organization. Then take meaningful steps to ensure every worker goes home safe at the end of the day.
Because behind every hard hat, vest, and pair of work boots—is a life that matters.
Book your complimentary consultation today.
Stay safe, stay compliant, and keep your business running smoothly!
About the author
John Duplessis, B.Sc., CRSP
John Duplessis is a Canadian Registered Safety Professional with more than 30 years of occupational health and safety experience in oil and gas, construction, green energy, midstream operations, and industrial project work.
