Belco employees, industry professionals and students gathered on Friday to mark the company’s annual Occupational Health, Safety and Environment Day under the theme “Lead Safely, Live Safely”.

The day began with a solemn memorial service honouring the 18 Belco workers who have died in service to the company since its founding in 1904. The ceremony, held at the company’s Serpentine Road headquarters, reaffirmed Belco’s commitment to safety and workplace accountability.

“This year’s OHSE Day directly trained both community members and employees, strengthening our island’s safety culture beyond our facility,” said Mark Pacheco, Belco’s director of operational support services. “The engagement from local students was particularly encouraging as we work to build a sustainable energy future for Bermuda.”

Belco is a subsidiary of Liberty Group Ltd, which is owned by Canadian firm Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. The company provides electricity to 36,000 metered connections across Bermuda.

The event featured hands-on safety training for the public, including fire extinguisher use and hazard identification. A session on the Smith System of defensive driving taught participants practical ways to reduce road risks.

Belco also hosted an electric vehicle showcase to promote environmentally friendly transport and safety. Meanwhile, more than 70 middle and high school students from five local schools took part in renewable energy seminars and plant tours to learn about career opportunities in the power sector.