VAUGHAN, ONT. — To mark the National Day of Mourning today (April 28), the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) is calling on the government, labour and management to continue to work together to identify hazards and make improvements to health and safety in construction.
“The commitment to health and safety in Ontario’s construction industry has never been higher and government, labour and management have never been more engaged,” said RESCON VP Andrew Pariser, who is also chair of the organization’s health and safety committee, in a statement. “Those who work in Ontario’s construction industry understand that it is no longer acceptable to look the other way and ignore health and safety issues before they arise. This applies to both physical and mental health issues and includes racism and diversity, equity and inclusion matters. Everyone in Ontario has the right to a workplace that is safe and free from harassment and violence, including racism.”
The National Day of Mourning is held annually to commemorate those who have lost their lives or suffered an injury or occupational illness due to work. RESCON president Richard Lyall said while improvements have been made in the industry there is still work to be done.
“During the pandemic, government, employers and unions worked in unison to ensure Ontario’s construction industry was able to continue working and build much-needed housing and infrastructure,” said Lyall. “As we reflect on those who have died or suffered an injury or illness due to work, it is critical that we keep that momentum going and continue to work together on ways to better identify and eliminate safety hazards in the future.”
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