Apr 30 - Fifty years ago, on April 28, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) went into effect after the tireless efforts of the labor movement, which drew major attention to work-related deaths and injuries, organized for safer working conditions and demanded action from their government.
Fifty years ago, on April 28, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) went into effect after the tireless efforts of the labor movement, which drew major attention to work-related deaths and injuries, organized for safer working conditions and demanded action from their government. And, on this 50th Anniversary of the Workers Memorial Day, we remember those who have suffered and died while on a job. No matter the industry, under the law, every employer is responsible for providing a safe workplace. But each year, thousands of people are killed and millions more get sick or are injured from preventable workplace hazards.
In our arena, we know many who we have lost; and we continue to lose too many workers to COVID-19, and other workplace hazards. No one should die simply because they show up to work every day. And after this past year, we are especially mindful of the flying partners who have lost their lives to COVID-19; and we remain committed to the fight for improved health and safety protections as well as overall safer working conditions in their memories.
Union coalitions along with our allies have fought hard to make that promise a reality—winning protections that have made jobs safer and saved lives. But there is much to be done before the promise to keep all workers safe on the job can be fulfilled. We must continue to fight and push forward to ensure safe jobs for all workers through strong unions and strong laws to protect workers.
Read more, including our AFA International Officers providing a tribute related to this week’s Workers Memorial Day commemoration, on the AFA International website.
