The Canadian Union of Skilled Workers (CUSW-BC) stands with workers across British Columbia and across Canada in observing the Day of Mourning on April 28, 2026. This day is a solemn reminder of the workers who have been killed, injured, or made ill because of their work, and it calls on all of us, employers, unions, and governments alike, to strengthen our commitment to preventing workplace harm.
For skilled workers in construction, maintenance, electrical, mechanical, and industrial trades, the risks on the job are often immediate and physical. Falls from heights, electrical hazards, heavy equipment, confined spaces, repetitive strain injuries, and exposure to hazardous materials are not abstract concerns. They are daily realities that require constant vigilance.
But beyond these visible dangers, there are also systemic issues that affect safety: rushed timelines, inadequate staffing, insufficient training, and pressure to prioritize productivity over precaution. These conditions can erode even the strongest safety cultures if they are not actively addressed.
CUSW-BC believes that every worker has the right to return home safely at the end of each shift. Health and safety are not optional extras. They are fundamental rights that must be built into every aspect of work planning and execution. This includes proper training, clear safety procedures, access to appropriate personal protective equipment, and the authority for workers to refuse unsafe work without fear of reprisal.
Equally important are good working conditions. Safe work is about preventing immediate accidents and reducing long-term harm. Fatigue, overwork, and chronic stress increase the risk of serious incidents on the job. When workers are stretched too thin or pressured to meet unrealistic deadlines, safety can be compromised. That is why reasonable workloads, fair scheduling, and respect for work-life balance are essential parts of any comprehensive health and safety system.
Unions like CUSW-BC play a critical role in making workplaces safer and healthier. Through collective bargaining, enforcement of safety standards, and active participation in joint health and safety committees, unions ensure that workers have a voice in shaping the conditions under which they work. When issues arise, union representatives advocate for corrective action, support injured workers, and push for systemic improvements that prevent future harm.
Just as importantly, unions help build a culture where safety is shared responsibility. They encourage communication, empower workers to speak up about hazards, and ensure that concerns are taken seriously. This collaborative approach leads to stronger safety outcomes and more resilient workplaces.
On the Day of Mourning, CUSW-BC honours those who have lost their lives or livelihoods due to workplace injury or illness. We also reaffirm our commitment to working alongside employers, regulators, and fellow workers to ensure that safety is not just a goal, but a daily practice. By standing together, we can continue to improve working conditions and protect the health and dignity of every skilled worker in British Columbia and beyond.
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