RICHMOND, B.C. — As workers, employers, families and others gather at Day of Mourning ceremonies around B.C. to pay tribute to workers injured or killed on the job, WorkSafeBC is issuing a stark reminder of the work that is still needed to ensure safety.
According to the organization, in 2024, workplace injuries and illnesses claimed the lives of 146 B.C. workers. Of these workers, 78 died from occupational diseases, nearly half due to asbestos exposure. Thirty-eight 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, 30 workers died as a result of motor vehicle incidents. General construction accounted for 24 deaths.
In all, 139 were male and there were seven women. What’s more, six of the deaths were young workers.
The Day of Mourning B.C. Schools Project is now in its 10th year and continues to play a vital role in educating students about their health and safety rights in the workplace, WorkSafe reports.
“Behind every statistic we reflect on during the Day of Mourning is a person — and represents the many lives forever changed by a workplace inciden,” Anne Naser, president and CEO of WorkSafeBC, said in a statement.
“It’s a powerful reminder that health and safety must be more than policies or checklists — they must be part of our culture, embedded in every task, every shift, every decision. Because behind every safe return home is a workplace culture that puts people first.”
Those who wish to post a virtual dedication or read what others have shared can do so on the Day of Mourning wall at dayofmourning.bc.ca.
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