TODAY IS OUR NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING
It is April 28th, the National Day of Mourning, when we take a moment to remember those who have lost their lives or suffered an injury or illness at work.
One year into this global pandemic, health and safety is top of mind for many. It has become clear that while some of us are able to significantly reduce risks by working from home, for essential workers mitigation options are limited. They continue to carry a high degree of risk. We thank all those on the front lines and look forward to the day when the risk of injury or death due to the pandemic is no longer a concern.
Here at the Radiation Safety Institute of Canada we are dedicated to educating workers about radiation safety so that they can take steps to eliminate or reduce their occupational exposures.
Radiation sources are ubiquitous in the modern workplace. There are multiple professions outside nuclear energy and medical fields that make use of radiation sources and equipment, for example welding, laboratory services, construction, exploration, manufacturing, agriculture, et cetera. Internal exposure can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption of radioactive material while external exposure can occur when working close to a radiation source.
Excessive exposure to ionizing radiation increases your risk of developing cancer. While all risks can never be completely eliminated in life, with respect to radiation safety, by following the ALARA principle occupational doses are kept As Low As Reasonably Achievable. At the end of the day, we all deserve to work in a healthy and safe environment.
On this day, the Radiation Safety Institute recognizes those who have lost their lives or been injured in the workplace.
