National Day of Mourning: Remembering Workplace Tragedies

The National Day of Mourning is a day to remember and honour those lives lost or injured due to a workplace tragedy. It’s also a day to collectively renew our commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace and to preventing further injuries, illnesses and deaths.

How to support

Traditionally on April 28, the Canadian flag flies at half-mast on Parliament Hill and on all federal government buildings. Employers and workers observe Day of Mourning in a variety of ways. Some light candles, lay wreaths, wear commemorative pins, ribbons or black armbands, and pause for a moment of silence. It is encouraged that organizations, employees, communities, and individuals hold or support an event, or simply observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m. on April 28. Consider sharing or playing the moment of silence video in your workplace to honour those who have died or suffered injury or illness due to a work-related tragedy. Employers and individuals can also show their support and commitment to a safe workplace by promoting the social media cards and messages provided on their page. By sharing these messages, you remind more people to put health and safety at the forefront of their work and help to prevent further work-related injuries and loss of life.