SPRINGFIELD – To promote and highlight the importance of improving work place safety and honor those who have been injured or killed from workplace accidents, State Senator Rachel Ventura championed a resolution to declare April 26, 2024 as Workers' Memorial Day in Illinois.

“Despite regulations in place like the Occupational Safety and Health Act, thousands of dedicated workers across the country are killed, disabled or severely injured by occupational diseases or workplace injuries every year,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “It’s essential to practice safety in the workplace to prevent these injuries and deaths. Every person deserves a safe workplace as a fundamental right, and employers need to be diligent in following the rules in place.”

Senate Resolution 895 encourages all employers to reaffirm their efforts toward improving workplace safety and serves as a day of remembrance and action for workers killed, disabled, injured, or made unwell by their work. Additionally, it strives to seek stronger health standard enforcement and treating workers with dignity as constant improvements in worker safety are pursed. 

According to the U.S. Labor of Statistics, in 2022 around 2.8 million people experienced nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the private industry, in addition to 5,486 fatal injuries. In Illinois, private industry employers reported 112,500 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2022.

Workers’ Memorial Day internationally is celebrated on April 28 following the signing of the Occupational Safety and Health Act that went into effect over 50 years ago, promising every worker the right to a safe job as a fundamental right.

“Recognizing Worker Memorial Day is important because it serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by workers who have lost their lives on the job,” said Ray Woodworth, executive director of Three Rivers Manufacturers’ Association. “It underscores the need for employers to prioritize the well-being of their employees. By commemorating this day, we reinforce our commitment to creating safer work environments.”

Senate Resolution 895 was approved by the Senate on Thursday.