NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR HIGHLIGHTS COMMITMENT TO WORKER SAFETY ON 113TH ANNIVERSARY OF TRIANGLE SHIRTWAIST FACTORY FIRE

Video Recap Available on YouTube

Footage of Commissioner Roberta Reardon's Speech Available on Vimeo

B-Roll Available on Vimeo

Photos Available on Flickr

In solemn remembrance of the 113th anniversary of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) today underscores its unwavering commitment to protecting New York's workers. This historic event, which tragically claimed the lives of 146 workers in 1911, remains a powerful reminder of the need for stringent workplace safety standards and labor protections. NYSDOL Commissioner Roberta Reardon attended and spoke at the official commemoration ceremony in New York City, reinforcing the department's dedication to upholding the rights and safety of all workers.

Commissioner Reardon emphasized the importance of the Department's mission, stating, “The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire challenges all of us to continue to do our part. To stand together. To unite. To fight for the safety of our workplaces. And that is one of the top priorities at the Department of Labor, because we believe that no worker should ever suffer this tragic fate again.”

The ceremony, organized by Workers United and Service Employees International Union (SEIU), included FDNY's ceremonial ladder raising and the laying of 146 flowers to honor the victims, most of whom were young immigrant women. This tragedy highlighted the urgent need for reform and catalyzed significant advancements in labor law and workplace safety regulations.

Media members are encouraged to download and utilize photos and video footage from the ceremony as we remember this pivotal moment in labor history.

In the wake of the fire, the public's outcry led to vital reforms, including the establishment of regulatory agencies to oversee workplace health and safety. These changes have laid the groundwork for modern labor protections, emphasizing the importance of continuous vigilance and improvement in labor standards.

In addition to enforcing labor laws, NYSDOL offers free on-site safety and health consultations for businesses. This service is designed to help employers identify potential hazards and implement safety and health management systems, further ensuring the safety and health of New York’s workforce. We are also emphasizing our commitment to protecting our youngest workers through the Youth Worker Pledge and our comprehensive Child Labor Hub, designed to educate employers, young workers, and their guardians about the rights and protections specific to youth employment in New York.

NYSDOL remains committed to upholding these standards and ensuring that every worker in New York State has a safe and fair workplace. We encourage anyone who believes their rights have been violated or has concerns about workplace safety to reach out to our Labor Standards team or file a complaint.