Ron Beck was 52 years old, two weeks away from meeting his fifth grandson and not long from retirement, when he died at work on April 25, 2004. 

It's a loss that continues to touch every generation of his family 19 years later, a story his wife and two daughters generously shared ahead of the International Day of Mourning to honour his memory and with the hope that it might prevent future tragedy. 

Every year, the Day of Mourning is observed on April 28 to honour those who have died or been injured at work. Day of Mourning awareness is led by the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour and supported by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, WCB Nova Scotia, and Threads of Life. This year, we pay tribute to the Nova Scotians like Ron who lost their lives at or because of work, and whose families will never be the same. 

Last year, 24 more families in Nova Scotia were changed forever when they lost a loved one at work or because of their work.

The Day of Mourning is an important opportunity for all employers and employees alike to pause, reflect, and renew their commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace.   

Workplaces are encouraged to participate in the Day of Mourning by: 

• Taking a moment to watch Ron Beck’s video and sharing it with those inside and outside your organization.
• Downloading posters, graphics and other resources for your workplace from our employer toolkit.
• Sharing a tribute at facebook.com/DayofMourningNS
• Attending one of the Day of Mourning ceremonies held across the province on April 28.
• Observing a moment of silence on Friday, April 28. 

To learn more, visit dayofmourning.ns.ca

Following a workplace tragedy, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Threads of Life is a national charity dedicated to supporting families during this very challenging time, providing an ongoing network of support. To learn more, visit threadsoflife.ca.