Workers’ Memorial Day is recognised internationally on 28 April and is also the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
Workers' Memorial Day is a day for the community to unite through grief, to honour the lives of their loved ones, and remind all Queenslanders of their right to work safely and go home safely.
The Office of Industrial Relations and the Consultative Committee for Work-related Fatalities and Serious Incidents will host a private ceremony on Tuesday 28 April. Those in attendance took a moment to remember their lost loved ones and strengthen their commitment to preventing work-related deaths, injuries and illnesses.
Dan Kennedy, Chair of the Consultative Committee for Work-related Fatalities and Serious Incidents, Queensland Safety Advocate and father of Dale Kennedy who died at work said "I wouldn't wish losing someone you love on anyone; it takes a lot of you."
"The pain doesn't stop – but a memorial day, Workers' Memorial Day, provides a day for the people still here to unite, feel support and reflect with those who have experienced something similar.
Dale didn't return home from work. He was only 20 years old, with a young child. Dale was electrocuted while working in a ceiling space as a fourth-year apprentice.
Dan said that "speaking with workers in Queensland gives me a sense of purpose - as so many workplace incidents could be avoided."
"We need to normalise speaking up when something doesn’t seem right and listen when someone in a workplace expresses concern."
If you would like a Safety Advocate like Dan to come to share their story for free with your business you can apply for Safety Advocate workplace visit here.