Design concept for new memorial unveiled

By Andrew Pariser

May 6, 2026

On April 28, the construction industry came together under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford and Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister David Piccini to commemorate the National Day of Mourning.

Every April 28, the construction industry remembers the workers we have lost and commits to do better. Simply put, everyone who goes to works needs to come home from work.

This April 28 was a bit different as the event was held at Queen’s Park and included the unveiling of the design concept for a new memorial to honour the contributions and sacrifice of construction workers.

The monument and memorial, which will be located on the grounds of Queen’s Park, will provide a dedicated space for reflection and remembrance and remind all Ontario citizens and employers of the shared responsibility to protect workers.

Safety is an everyday task, for every worker, and needs to be part of everyday discussions on every jobsite in Ontario. This is because the consequence of letting your guard down can lead to accidents, critical injuries or death.

In addition to remembering fallen workers, we need to also remember and support their families.

Construction is a family-based industry dominated by small companies and owners and workers who share close connections and relations.

In unionized settings, members are referred to as brothers and sisters and when someone dies, we all feel the loss and need to access the mental health and supportive services that are available when tragedy strikes.

In this month’s column, I will share resources for those who have lost a loved one to a workplace accident and focus on safety and health week.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life is a charity dedicated to supporting families after a workplace fatality, life-altering injury or occupational disease.

It connects families who have lost someone to a workplace accident to support volunteers who have also lost someone to a workplace-related accident. It is the best charity you hope you never need.

The volunteers provide assistance during a family’s darkest hours and the organization has become a focal point of the Day of Mourning.

Please consider supporting this charity and the incredibly important support it provides.

Click here for more information.

Safety and Health Week

Safety and Health Week has gained recognition and popularity over the last 13 years in Ontario. It is a great opportunity to focus on safety and safety related activities.

This year, it runs from May 4 to 9.

Safety resources and ideas include, but are not limited to toolbox talks, conferences, site-specific training, and a general recommitment to and focus on safety.

While safety is front of mind on all sites, it is important to take time regularly to fight complacency and recommit to safety as individuals, employers, associations, and as a sector.

In order to learn more about this year’s safety events and find resources, check out safety partners including the IHSA, WSIB, Ministry of Labour (prevention office), and charities including Steps to Life.

While safety is an everyday task, it is important to take the time needed to fight complacency and recommit to the safety of all workers.

We are stronger when we work together and an increased focus on safety will benefit all employers, workers and their families.  

Stay safe.