This Sunday, April 28, 2013 is National Day of Mourning for workers who have been killed, injured or made ill while on the job.  In 2011 there were 249,511 accepted time-loss injuries[i] and 919 fatalities[ii] in Canada. All of us at Safety First Consulting ask that you take a moment this Sunday to remember the workers and their families who have been impacted by workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

Our number one focus at Safety First Consulting is to help employers eliminate workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses.   Through education, awareness, intervention and prevention we strive to provide safer workplaces. In our inspections we aim to recognize hazards before they can cause an injury and help employers implement strategies to avoid incidents.

The social, emotional and economic consequences of workplace accidents are simply too high. The impact of an accident for an injured worker and their family can be devastating; time lost from work, lost wages, emotional distress and potential permanent impairments are just to know a few. Employers may face higher WSIB premiums, potential fines and even criminal charges that may result in jail time. Society as a whole is impacted by the loss of valuable productive workers and the economic cost of medical care and benefits for ill and injured workers.

This Sunday, April 28^th take a moment to remember those we have lost and workers who have been injured or made ill on the job. Please reflect on how you can contribute to the improvement of safety in the workplace. Together we can work towards eliminating all workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities. Make safety your number one priority!