International Workers’ Memorial Day is observed every year on April 28th. This date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) in the United States, which was signed into law in 1970. The day is recognized globally as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by workers and to renew efforts to protect those who are at risk of injury or illness on the job.
By honoring those who came before us, we’re reminded why safety matters—and by practicing it every day, we help protect ourselves and each other. Here are some thoughtful ways to participate:
Observe a Moment of Silence – Then Speak Up for Safety
Take a quiet moment at the start of your day or shift to remember those who’ve been impacted by workplace injuries or illness. Afterward, consider sharing a brief message about what safety means to you. A simple reminder can go a long way.
Host a Safety Stand-Down
Gather your team for a quick huddle focused on a specific safety topic—whether it’s ladder safety, overexertion prevention, or PPE tips. Make it interactive with a demo, quiz, or story. Safety talks don’t have to be long to make an impact.
Host a “Safety Spotlight” Session
Celebrate team members who prioritize safety every day. Use this time to highlight individuals who’ve gone the extra mile, share lessons learned from past experiences, and encourage open conversations about how to keep each other safe. A little recognition can go a long way in reinforcing positive habits and a strong safety culture.
Spread the Word, the Right Way
Use bulletin boards or group chats to share safety tips, shout-outs, and even lighthearted reminders (like a meme or catchy slogan). Empower everyone to contribute something—whether it’s a tip, a quote, or a story.
Take the 5-Minute Fix Challenge
Challenge your crew to identify one safety improvement they can make today—maybe it’s organizing cords, adjusting a monitor, or reporting a tripping hazard. Recognize everyone’s “5-minute fixes” to show how small actions build safer spaces.
Make Safety Personal
Start conversations about why safety matters to each person on your team. Do they want to make it home in time for dinner? Watch their kid’s soccer game? By connecting safety to real life, it becomes more than a rule—it’s a value.
To view OSHA’s Workers Memorial Day Remembrance Wall and access resources for this year’s observance, visit: https://www.osha.gov/workers-memorial
Until next time… Work Safe and Be Safe!
