On Workers' Memorial Day, the National Safety Council urges public and private sectors to unite to tackle 4,000 workplace fatalities occurring each year

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Apr 25, 2013, 05:00 ET

ITASCA, Ill., April 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council is recognizing Workers' Memorial Day on Sunday, April 28, by remembering all workers who have died on the job and reaffirming its commitment to collaborative efforts to promote employee safety.

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In 2011, nearly 4,000 workplace injury fatalities occurred, according to Injury Facts, 2013 edition. Up until three years ago, these fatalities were improving, but have since remained flat. Additionally, an estimated 53,000 illness fatalities occur each year from exposure to occupational health hazards.

"The National Safety Council has been dedicated to keeping workplaces safe since its inception a century ago. While progress has been made, our ultimate goal is zero injuries, illnesses and deaths," said Janet Froetscher, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. "This Workers' Memorial Day our thoughts go out to the families who've lost loved ones. We will remain steadfast in our efforts to save lives and prevent injuries and illnesses."

Workers' Memorial Day is observed annually to coincide with the date of the establishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1971. The Council has maintained an alliance with OSHA since 2003 to improve workplace safety and health practices and provide American workers with safety information, guidance and access to training resources. The alliance particularly emphasizes helping small businesses and minority and youth workers become aware of information and strategies for staying safe on the job.

About the National Safety Council
Founded in 1913 and chartered by Congress, the National Safety Council, nsc.org, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to save lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy. NSC advances this mission by partnering with businesses, government agencies, elected officials and the public in areas where we can make the most impact – distracted driving, teen driving, workplace safety, prescription drug overdoses and Safe Communities.

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SOURCE National Safety Council