On 28 April every year trade unionists around the world mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD). It is a day to remember all those who have died at work and renew our fight for better health and safety conditions for all workers. More people are killed at work every year than die in wars, and often this is down to bosses prioritising profit over basic health and safety conditions. Unions are fighting back to defend every worker and ensure that safety standards are met.
Nighttime safety
One key theme of this year’s IWMD is nighttime safety. It is an issue that is particularly prevalent for Equity members. Performing artists such as cabaret artistes, comedians, stage management and singers can be vulnerable when working at night, especially when working alone. Their work can include leaving venues late at night, parking and loading out in insecure locations with expensive and/or cumbersome equipment and a lack of personal security.
Equity is fighting for the safety of nighttime workers in many ways. An Equity motion calling for government action to prevent sexual harassment on public transport was passed unanimously at the TUC Women’s Conference earlier this year. The motion highlighted the risks for women working in the performing arts sector who often rely on late-night travel as part of their working lives.
Equity's Safe Home campaign has called on venues to safeguard performing artists who work at night or in vulnerable locations in Northern Ireland. The campaign asks venue owners and managers to agree to certain principles including that artists will be provided with reputable taxi firm numbers to arrange their transport or will be provided with a free car parking space on request. Belfast City Council recently pledged £10,000 in support of this campaign which will fund the creation of an online video resource, hard copy Safe Home posters for Belfast venues outlining their commitment to the principles and a website listing of those who have signed up across the city.
Equity has joined the Justice for Heklina campaign, to seek answers regarding the death of drag artist, Heklina. Heklina, born Stephen Grygelko, was found dead at a flat in Soho on 3 April 2023 and had been performing in a show at Soho Theatre at the time of their death. The case is illustrative of the rise of safety fears for LGBTQ+ nighttime workers, particularly drag and variety members who are facing increasingly inhospitable working conditions in London due to the rapid decline of small venues, rising homophobic and transphobic violence and low levels of trust in the Metropolitan Police Force.
Research commissioned by Equity and other unions in 2024 revealed the health and safety impacts of night working, including the cost of nighttime travel, safety impacts of lone working and health implications of fatigue, sleep patterns and social life. The report made a number of recommendations to improve standards for nighttime workers, with risk assessments and health monitoring top of the list.
AI is a health and safety issue
The international theme of this year’s IWMD is the impact of AI and digitisation on occupational health and safety. The negative impact of AI includes the increased tracking and monitoring of workers which has led to unacceptable pressures through target-setting technologies. AI used in this way has negated workers’ rights to appropriate breaks and led to serious injuries and ill health.
The International Trade Union Confederation state that “AI at work is increasing work intensification, monitoring and surveillance, generating negative impacts on mental and physical wellbeing, as workers experience the extreme pressure of constant, real-time micromanagement and automated assessment.”
Equity members will know that AI is playing an increasing role across the performing arts and entertainment industries and often has a negative effect on our members’ work life and metal health. Equity is committed to ensuring that this rapidly developing technology works for our members and not just the bosses. Equity has produced an AI toolkit with advice and support for workers in the performing arts and entertainment industries.
How to get involved
Attend an event
IWMD activities are taking place up and down the country and Equity branches and members are encouraged to get involved. You can find details about your local event here.
If you want to attend as a branch then bring Equity flags and banners, you can use branch funds to buy and lay a wreath, and you may wish to theme your wreath around Equity colours (purple and green) or IWMD colours (purple and white).
Hold a one-minute silence
Trade unionists across the country will be taking part in a one-minute silence at 12.00 to remember all those who have died because of their work, you could arrange a silence in your workplace or take part wherever you are.
Say their names
You may wish to read out the names of people who died this year in your industry, or reference some of them at a vigil or meeting.
Spread the word
Use the hashtag #IWMD on social media channels to help spread the word about the day and why you’re getting involved.
Grow our movement
The most important thing you can do to improve heath and safety for work is grow the trade union movement. Encourage friends and colleagues to join a union if they are not already members.
For further health and safety advice see our online resources.
