Prince George, B.C.- About 50 people attended the annual memorial for workers who have been injured or who have died either on the job, or as a result of their work.

 

Last year, 160 workers in B.C. died as a result of work related injuries, nearly half succumbed to illnesses brought on by exposure to asbestos years ago.

 

Mayor Dan Rogers ( in photo at right ) told those in attendance that workplace injuries and death impact us all, “These workers are our friends, our family our neighbours.” While he noted the official day of mourning is just one day “We need to remember this every day.” The Mayor also promised that as there is increasing pressure to get the job done, he will not allow safety to be sacrificed in an effort to complete the work faster or to save money.

 

Bruce Clark of WorkSafe  B.C.   says the number of deaths in 2008 was 21 more than in 2007 and call on all to help develop a culture of safety in every workplace.