The United Steelworkers’ Hall in Port Alberni was packed on Friday as workers from forestry and other industries, first responders, family members and politicians remembered those who have died on the job.

The Day of Mourning is recognized in more than 100 countries and brings attention to the number of people who die while working each year.

In 2016, 144 people died on the job in British Columbia, according to WorkSafeBC.

There is a way to help, says Ron Corbeil, a retired steelworker and now SAFER health and safety advisor.

“We can all make a difference,” he told the crowd gathered inside the hall. “We can make change. We can try and ensure no one gets injured. As we say, ‘mourn for the dead, but fight like hell for the living.’”

A number of speakers underlined the message of remembering those who have died on the job. Everyone then walked to the cenotaph at the front of the building, preceded by piper Bob Linden, to lay flowers and pause for a moment of silence.

editor@albernivalleynews.com