Today, the Building and Wood Workers’ International joins millions of workers worldwide in remembering those who never made it home. Behind the staggering ILO figure of nearly 3 million work-related deaths each year are names, families, and communities. Each loss is a tragedy that should never have happened. Each one calls us to act—not in isolation, but together.

In 2025, BWI affiliates stand shoulder to shoulder to confront two deadly, too often invisible threats: dust and heat. Across worksites and forests, quarries and factories, these hazards are stealing lives.

Through our “STOP Deadly Dust” campaign, we shine a light on the rising toll of silica and wood dust exposure—diseases like silicosis and respiratory cancers that could have been prevented. In the face of inaction, we raise our voices together.

At the same time, our “Too Hot To Work” campaign continues to lift up workers enduring unbearable heat as climate change accelerates. No one should have to risk death for a paycheck. Decent work means safe work—and that includes protection from heat.

Together, we also reaffirm our global calls for the ratification of the key ILO OSH Conventions, 155 & 167, and affiliates around the world are holding activities to ensure meaningful implementation of the revised ILO Codes of Practice for Forestry and Construction to achieve safer workplaces for every worker.

Across countries and continents, BWI affiliates are marking this day with vigils, workplace actions, and public mobilisations—not just in remembrance, but in resistance.

 This is solidarity in action.
This is how we honour the dead—by fighting for the living.