April 28th is the Day of Mourning, which is held every year to honour employees who have been killed, injured or suffered illness due to workplace related hazards and incidents.
CUPE Local 787 President Randy Wald says 188 Albertans lost their lives to a workplace injury or illness last year, which is up from 145 in 2012.
“It is a concern that it is on the rise, and through the ceremony, through this recognition, we’re just wanting to bring awareness to the public and to the workers that health and safety is your number one priority.”
Wald adds an increasing number of those are attributed to occupational illnesses like cancer.
“Ninety-nine workers were diagnosed with illnesses, compared to 58 in 2012, so that’s a huge increase. So that’s regards to toxic chemicals, smoke, so it is a concern.”
A flag raising ceremony will be held outside of City Hall Monday morning, followed by a moment of silence, starting at 11:30 a.m.
