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Remembering Workers Who Lost Their Lives on the Job

Rob Dillard, Iowa Public Radio

   Ceremonies were held across the state in recognition of Workers Memorial Day. April 28th is set aside each year to remember those who have died on the job. 

Thirty-nine Iowans lost their lives in the past year while at work. 

White crosses honored each of the dead. Bagpipes played and an honor guard fired a 21-gun salute. The president of the Iowa Federation of Labor – Ken Sagar – addressed family members of the workers.

“I do remember what it’s like to sit in one of those chairs," he recalls. "My wife’s brother passed a few years ago on the job.”

Sagar says the goal each year is to have empty chairs at Workers Memorial Day. April 28th is set aside because it’s the anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.