UNISON Urges MPs To Officially Recognise Workers Memorial Day, UK

Main Category: Public Health
Article Date: 28 Apr 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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UNISON, the UK's largest public sector trade union, has written to all MPs calling for recognition of Workers Memorial Day (on 28 April each year) as a national day of remembrance. The day commemorates those who have died, been seriously injured, or made seriously ill by their work. It also highlights the right all workers should have to a safe and healthy workplace.

UNISON General Secretary, Dave Prentis said:

"UNISON is calling on MPs to wear a purple forget-me-knot ribbon and attend one of the many commemorative events organised across the country. We are also urging them to support our campaign to get recognition for Workers Memorial day as a national day of remembrance.

"Workers Memorial Day is significant because it honours those who have died simply as a result of carrying out their day to day employment. It also reminds us of the need for a vibrant and effective culture of health and safety in the workplace for all those who are still at work, their families, and the children who will become tomorrows' workers "

Health and Safety Executive statistics estimate that each year 220 - 250 people in the UK die as a result of their work. Around another 1,000 or so deaths occur whist driving to work. It is also estimated that between 20,000 and 50,000 deaths each year are caused by work-related ill health. These fatal work-related illnesses include: respiratory diseases, various cancers, and heart disease.

http://www.unison.org.uk