Workers Memorial Day – 28 April 2024 – in the UK

The UK officially recognised for the first time on 28 April 2010 – Workers Memorial Day that commemorates the thousands of people who have been killed, disabled, seriously injured or made ill through their work.

This followed the Government’s consultation in July 2009 to explore options for official recognition of the day, which has gained widespread support.

Many other countries around the world officially recognise the Day on 28 April, the International Day of Action for Safety and Health at Work. Formal recognition will reinforce the significance of the Day.

For many years there have been memorial services held on 28 April in the UK.

History of Occupational Safety and Health

History of Occupational Safety and Health website, launched on 28 April 2014, has been put together by various members of RoSPA’s National Occupational Safety and Health Committee (NOSHC).

It provides a wealth of information for those wishing to track the development of occupational safety and health, be they teaching or studying for professional or academic qualifications or carrying out other research, showing how this area has been at the heart of the UK’s industrial history.

www.historyofosh.org.uk

UK Health and Safety Record

Key figures for Great Britain (2013/14)

1.2 million working people suffering from a work-related illness
2,535 mesothelioma deaths due to past asbestos exposures (2012)
133 workers killed at work
78,000 other injuries to employees reported under RIDDOR
629,000 injuries at work from the Labour Force Survey
28.2 million working days lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury
£14.2 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions (2012/13)

Further details see Health and Safety Statistics: www.hse.gov.uk/statistics

Commemorative Events

There have been an increasing number of commemorative events in the UK in recent years as Workers Memorial Day has become a focal point for bereaved families, unions, campaign organisations and local authorities among others. As more people have become involved in these events, there has been growing support for formal recognition of the Day.

Commemorations will continue to be led by individuals, employers, trade unions and community organisations. In keeping with the outcome of the consultation, the Government will encourage commemorations to be held on the day itself throughout the UK. The Government and Ministers will help support and promote these commemorations.

Quick Facts

The Consultation is available at www.dwp.gov.uk/consultations/2009
Workers Memorial Day originated in Canada in 1984. The day is also recognised in other countries. It is now recognised as a national day in 19 countries.
Since 1989 trade unions in the UK, USA Asia, Europe and Africa have organised events on and around 28 April. This date was chosen for International Workers Memorial Day as it is the anniversary of the Occupational Health and Safety Act in the USA and also commemorates the day that 28 people were killed in a construction accident in Connecticut.
Workers Memorial Day has been informally recognised in the UK since 1992.
In 2001 the International Labour Organisation recognised Workers Memorial Day and announced April 28 as an International Day of Action for Safety and Health at Work, which is an annual international campaign to promote safe, healthy and decent work around the globe.