By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In recognition of the National Day of Mourning on April 28, the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) is calling for collective action to prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses. This annual observance, marked in more than 70 countries since 1991, serves as a solemn reminder of the real human costs behind workplace injuries and fatalities.
Speaking with The Record, CNESST communications representative Elyssa Fontaine explained, “The Day of Mourning is the national day of commemoration that aims to pay tribute to the victims of work accidents and professional diseases. We also take this opportunity to remind workers as well as employers of the importance of taking care of health, safety and work in all workplaces.”
This year, the CNESST unveiled its regional and provincial statistics to underscore the importance of prevention. In Estrie alone, 15 people lost their lives in 2024 due to work-related causes: four from workplace accidents and 11 from occupational diseases. Across the region, 5,188 work-related injuries were recorded, including 4,587 workplace accidents and 601 cases of occupational disease.
Fontaine noted, “The cases are related to work accidents directly, and they are also related to professional diseases.” She added that many disease-related deaths stem from older working conditions, mentioning asbestosis and cancer linked to methods used in the “1950s or 60s.”
Province-wide, Quebec reported 107,124 work-related injuries and illnesses in 2024, a decrease of more than 6 per cent from the previous year. However, there was a concerning rise in fatalities, with 246 deaths recorded — 74 from accidents and 172 from occupational diseases. This marks an increase of 36 deaths compared to 2023.
“It’s still a decrease of 191 cases compared to last year, so 3.7 per cent less than last year,” Fontaine said regarding injuries. However, she cautioned against comparing 2023 and 2024 too closely. “With the last few years, with COVID, it has changed the numbers a bit,” she said. “In general, from 2023 to 2024, we’re not sure to look at these two years to have a good comparison.”
Fontaine emphasized that the CNESST is continuing its work to promote collaboration between employers and workers. “We really want to highlight in this Day of Mourning the importance of this collaboration,” she said. “The responsibility, yes to the employer, but also to the workers.”
Jean Boulet, Quebec’s Minister of Labour, issued a statement reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening worker protection. “Beyond the numbers lie families, friends, and colleagues who are left behind and deeply affected,” Boulet stated. “Your government is committed to continuing legislative efforts to protect workers and reduce professional injuries.”
Similarly, CNESST Board Chair Louise Otis and President and CEO Anouk Gagné stressed the importance of collective prevention efforts. “Each accident, illness, or death is one too many,” Gagné said. “By joining forces, we can create healthier and safer workplaces.”
In addition to statistical reporting, the CNESST ran a public awareness campaign this month, including videos and mass media advertising, culminating with flags flown at half-mast at the National Assembly and CNESST headquarters on April 28. More information about the Day of Mourning can be found at jourdedeuil.com.
“We want to take the day to really make sure that in the workplaces, the decisions are made in different parts to try to identify these risks and find solutions to eliminate the risk, but if it’s impossible to eliminate it, to at least be able to control it,” Fontaine said.