An official Workers Memorial Day to commemorate everyone who has died, been seriously injured or made ill through their work is to be held on 28 April.
The move by the government follows a consultation in July last year, and the day will coincide with the International Day of Action for Safety and Health at Work.
It is intended that the day will become a focal point for bereaved families, unions, campaign organisations and local authorities, with commemorations being held, said work and pensions secretary Yvette Cooper.
“For the first time, the UK will join countries across the globe in remembrance of all those killed at work and for the families they have left behind, and the many more who have been harmed.
“It is also a spur to greater efforts to improve health and safety for today’s and tomorrow’s working population,” she added.
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
There has been an informal Workers’ Memorial Day held in the UK since 1992, but this year will be the first time it has received a formal stamp of approval.
The TUC has added it would like to see workplaces hold a minute’s silence at noon on the day to highlight workplace safety as well as remember those who have died.
