Tomorrow (April 28) is the National Day Of Mourning.
A time to remember those who have been killed, injured or suffered illness due to work-related incidents.
According to WorkSafe BC, last year workplace injuries and illnesses tragically claimed the lives of 138 BC workers, 5 of those were in the Cariboo region.
Of these workers, WorkSafe BC said 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.
Of that total 134 were male and 4 were female
Todd McDonald, Head of Prevention Services at WorkSafe BC said “behind every number is a person, a family, coworkers, and a community that are forever changed.”
He said the Day of Mourning is also a time to reflect on what we can all do to make workplaces safer.
Flags will be lowered to half mast at the District of 100 Mile House, and both Quesnel and Williams Lake City Hall’s.
WorkSafe BC reminds workers and employees that safe and healthy workplaces are a shared responsibility including both physical and psychological safety.
Something going on in the Cariboo you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing cariboonews@vistaradio.ca.
