Day of Mourning to be marked with launch of ban asbestos campaign

News Release

For immediate release April 28, 2010

Day of Mourning to be marked with launch of ban asbestos campaign

April 28, 2010 is International Day of Mourning for Workers Killed and Injured on the job. In ceremonies across the province, workers and their families take time remember those who have lost their lives, been injured or became ill, due to their work.

“In 2009 we lost 34 workers to work-related disease and accidents. And so many more got sick or injured just by going to work. We remember those who have died on this day and we renew our commitment to creating safer and healthier workplaces,” said Saskatchewan Federation of Labour (SFL) president Larry Hubich.

This year’s Day of Mourning was also marked with the release of an important new safety brochure for Saskatchewan homeowners. The Ban Asbestos Committee of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Committee have just published “Asbestos: Is it in your home?”

The brochure explains the health dangers of exposure to asbestos, and practical advice about what to do if you find it in your home.

“Last year in Saskatchewan we lost four workers to asbestos-related disease. This deadly substance is also found in public buildings and homes. We want to make sure Saskatchewan citizens know where to look for asbestos, so they can protect themselves and their families,” said Lori Johb, chair of SFL OH&S committee.

The Labour Councils across the province will be doing a massive distribution of the brochure to homeowners. Asbestos was used in many types of building products and insulation materials prior to the 1970s, so homes built before the 1970s are a top priority.

Tiny asbestos fibres inhaled into the lungs cause various forms of lung cancer, often many years after exposure.

Bob Sass, co-chair of the Ban Asbestos Saskatchewan Committee is passionate about reaching the public with the safety information. “Asbestos kills over 100,000 people per year worldwide. We must be vigilant in tracking down where the substance is found in our communities. And we must continue to pressure the Harper government to stop the mining and export of asbestos to developing countries.”

Day of Mourning ceremonies to honour those killed and injured on the job will be held at several locations around the province.

“We encourage all locals to support and attend the event in your area,” said Hubich.

Download news release and list of locations here...

Download asbestos brochure here...