20 workers died in 2024 in the province, up from 18 in 2023
Workplace fatalities in Nova Scotia increase to 20 in 2024, up from 18 the previous year, according to a report from the Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) of Nova Scotia. The new figures, detailed in an infographic, underscore the urgent need for stronger safety measures to protect workers across the province.
"Every workplace fatality is one too many," says Nolan Young, Minister of Labour, Skills, and Immigration. "Our thoughts are with the families and coworkers affected by these tragedies. We continue to act and work together to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities across Nova Scotia".
Breaking down the numbers
The 2024 fatalities fall into three categories:
- Acute Fatalities: Sudden incidents, such as falls, drownings, or motor vehicle accidents, claim eight lives, up from seven in 2023. Despite the rise, this figure remains below the five-year average of nine. These fatalities impact diverse sectors, including construction, retail, and manufacturing.
- Occupational Diseases: Six workers lose their lives to diseases like mesothelioma caused by past exposures. This marks a decrease from nine deaths in 2023.
- Health-Related Deaths: Heart attacks and strokes that occur while at work lead to six deaths, tripling the figure from two in 2023.
Calls for action
Karen Adams, CEO of the WCB, stresses the preventable nature of many workplace deaths: “Workplace deaths leave families having to navigate the loss of a loved one from an event that is not only tragic but, in many cases, preventable. It’s a type of grief no one should have to cope with. Our thoughts are with the families”.
Nova Scotia’s overall workplace injury rate remains at a historic low, half of what it was two decades ago. However, a recent review of the workers' compensation system identifies areas for improvement. Leaders continue to push for a stronger safety culture and stricter adherence to safety protocols to reduce fatalities further.
Supporting affected families
Families coping with workplace tragedies turn to the Threads of Life charity for assistance. It provides vital support and advocates for the prevention of workplace fatalities, life-altering injuries, and occupational diseases.
Strengthening safety culture
The rise in fatalities prompts leaders to intensify efforts to prevent further tragedies. The loss of 20 lives in 2024 starkly highlights the need for robust safety measures across all sectors. Organizations and policymakers remain focused on fostering a stronger safety culture to ensure no family faces this preventable grief again.
