House adopts Snyder’s ‘Workers Memorial Day’ resolution
The state House of Representatives unanimously approved a resolution from Rep. Pam Snyder, D-Jefferson, designating April 28 as “Workers Memorial Day” to honor employees killed, injured or sickened in the workplace.
House Resolution 179 also commemorates the 42nd anniversary of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act, known as OSHA, on April 28, 1971.
“Throughout Pennsylvania’s industrial history, we have been alerted all too often of workplace accidents and have heard calls for improved safety measures,” said Snyder, Democratic secretary of the House Labor and Industry Committee. “Workers Memorial Day reminds us of the importance of these laws and reminds us of the need to remain attentive to the safety of all workers.”
The motto for Workers Memorial Day is: “Remember the dead, fight for the living.”
“My resolution honors the thousands of individuals who have succumbed to workplace fatalities, as well as the millions who suffer from workplace injuries or illnesses,” Snyder said. “We extend our sympathies to the colleagues, family and friends of those who have been lost and reaffirm the value of every member of the workforce and our commitment to safe work environments.”
Snyder said more than 4,600 workers suffered fatal workplace injuries in the United States including 186 in Pennsylvania last year. Nationally, more than 3 million nonfatal injuries were reported, and an additional 50,000 fatalities are estimated from illnesses contracted from workplace exposures.