Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living: Workers’ Memorial Day 2026

What is Workers’ Memorial Day?

Workers’ Memorial Day (WMD) is on 28th April every year and is a worldwide day of remembrance to think about those who have died because of their work.

With today’s health and safety requirements and modern technology, it is shocking to think that people still die because of their job. Unfortunately, it is a sad fact that people are still being seriously injured or killed at work, perhaps due to faulty equipment or procedures not being followed due to a lack of training.

What historical health and safety failings are remembered on WMD?

Work related deaths caused today are not only due to recent health and safety failures but are also caused by historical failings by employers. Asbestos exposure is an example of historical negligence by employers, although the devastating effects are only being seen today when people are being diagnosed with asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma.

Our specialist Asbestos and Workplace Illness Team have particular reason to reflect on WMD, as they see first-hand every day the tragic effects historical bad working practices have had on workers.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an asbestos related cancer that develops in the lining of:

• The lungs – pleural mesothelioma
• The abdomen – peritoneal mesothelioma
• The heart – pericardial mesothelioma
• The testes – testicular mesothelioma

Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition, although there are treatment options available which are intended to provide a better quality of life and prolong life expectancy.

One of the unique things about mesothelioma is that the period between exposure to asbestos dust and first symptoms of the condition is very long and typically ranges from 10 to 60+ years.

How many people are affected by mesothelioma?

According to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics, for many years there have been approximately 2,500 people every year newly diagnosed with mesothelioma in Great Britain. The majority of mesothelioma sufferers will have contracted the condition as a result of their previous employment.

It is horrific to think that in the last ten years or so, about 25,000 people have suffered from mesothelioma and many of those sufferers contracted the condition as a result of their work.

Was asbestos used in the UK?

Blue, white and brown asbestos was used widely in the UK across many industries for a number of decades. In particular, asbestos materials such as lagging and sheeting were extensively used by tradesmen during the 1960s and 1970s.

Many buildings today still have asbestos materials present from when it was fitted all those years ago. This is a concern as the material will become damaged over time: the fibres can then escape into the atmosphere and be breathed in by today’s workers. Of further concern is that far too many employers are still not managing the asbestos in their workplace and thereby are exposing their workers to asbestos fibres. This is completely unnecessary and can be fully prevented.

What is meant by “Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living”?

Over the years, the chant “Remember the dead, fight for the living” has been used on WMD. Not only is 28th April each year about remembering those who have already been killed because of their work but it is also about trying to prevent the same mistakes happening to current workers.

In memory of all those who have been affected by mesothelioma, Hodge Jones & Allen will continue to:

• Raise awareness about mesothelioma
• Fundraise to help vital medical research find a cure for the condition
• Support the charities who do an amazing job helping mesothelioma sufferers and their families

What can you do on 28th April 2026?

WMD is a day for everyone to think about those who have died as a result of their employment, whether it be through asbestos exposure or otherwise.

You can observe a minute’s silence at 12 noon on 28th April 2026, to show your respect to those who have lost their life because of their work. Memorial events are taking place across the country and so you may be able to attend your local event.

Our Asbestos and Workplace Illness Team will be thinking about the many clients and families they have assisted over the years – the day is always a particularly thoughtful one for the Team.